Thomas Gray McGrew

Tom McGrew was born on August 18, 1941, in Dimmit, Texas. He graduated from Arlington High School in 1959 and went on to Arlington College on a scholarship as their football trainer. He later became certified as an X-Ray Technologist at Methodist Hospital in Dallas, then transferred to East Texas State University where he created lifelong Sigma Chi friendships, met and married Sandy Gilmore, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in English and Physical Education and a Master's in Counseling and Guidance.

After graduation, Tom started the first Radiologic Technology Program at El Centro College and later worked as a Counselor and Case Worker for Texas Rehab in their Drug and Alcohol Program. He then pursued professional sales, working with companies such as GAF and American Hospital Supply. In 1980, Tom and Sandy founded Monarch Medical, initially serving hospitals, then transitioning to the funeral home market as Monarch Resources, now serving nearly 2,000 funeral homes across North America and beyond.

Tom's passion for helping funeral directors and grieving families defined his career, exemplified by his tireless dedication and commitment. He held leadership roles in professional organizations, including President of the Texas Funeral Directors Association (TFDA) Sales Club and Disaster Relief Team, actively aiding communities after disasters like the West, Texas explosion and Hurricane Katrina. In 2011, Tom was honored as TFDA's Supplier of the Year.

A dedicated member of New World United Methodist Church since 1980, Tom actively participated in the Men's Group, Crosstrainers, Wesley Foundation, and Youth Group. He was a Charter Member of the Arlington Sunrise Rotary Club, maintaining perfect attendance for 34 years and serving as President, earning the Paul Harris Fellow Award, and playing a pivotal role in community projects, including the Arlington Sunrise Creative Playground.

Tom cherished his family, friends, and the simple joys of life. He loved traveling, especially visiting Green Mountain Falls, Colorado. He lived by his strong faith and the Rotarian 4-Way Test, touching thousands of lives.

Tom courageously battled a rare neurological disease since 2016. He passed away after more than nine years of fighting with strength and grace. Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Doris. He is survived by Sandy, his beloved wife of 60 years, sons Brian (Becky) and Alan (Jill), granddaughters Lauren, Taylor, and Ashley, brother John, niece Amber, nephew Grady, and an extended family of McGrews, Peters, Lees, Grays, and countless friends.

Visitation will be held at Wade Funeral Home on March 27th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The Funeral Service will be held on March 28th at 1:00 pm at New World United Methodist Church. Graveside services will follow at Moore Memorial Gardens on March 28th at 3:30 pm.