Thomas “Tom” Michael Hargrove, age 79, of Paducah, Kentucky, passed away on August 11, 2026, at Ray & Kay Eckstein Hospice Care Center. He was born on November 14, 1946, in Mayfield, Kentucky, and lived a life marked by hard work, devotion to family, and faithful service to his country and community.
Tom retired as Plant Manager from Trinity Fiberglass Company, where he was respected for his strong work ethic, steady leadership, and dependable nature. He took pride in doing a job well and carried that same commitment into every part of his life. He was also a proud member of the United States Army, where he served in Vietnam. He wore his Vietnam Veteran hat with honor, and it was a visible reminder of the service and sacrifice that remained an important part of who he was. In recent years, Tom has connected with old Army friends and even made some new ones along the way. He would travel to Georgia to spend time with them, reminisce, and proudly talk about their time in the service. He was a true patriot.
Tom was a faithful member of Lone Oak Church of Christ, where he found fellowship and strength in his faith. He lived his life with quiet integrity and a generous spirit, and those who knew him will remember his kindness, his sense of responsibility, and the way he cared for others. He was an excellent caregiver and lovingly cared for his wife until he was no longer able. His family was his greatest joy, and he treasured every moment spent with those he loved. While he dearly loved being a husband and father, becoming “Grandad” brought him the utmost joy and filled his heart in a special way.
Tom was known as a handyman, and there was little he could not repair. If he could not fix something, it likely could not be fixed. He enjoyed the challenge of solving problems and took satisfaction in making things work again. He also loved a good bargain and could spend hours searching for the best deal. He always had his coupons clipped and ready, and he approached shopping with the same determination and patience that he brought to everything else in life.
In his quieter moments, Tom enjoyed watching the birds through his bird feeder camera, finding pleasure in the simple beauty of nature. He was also an excellent cook, especially when it came to grilling and smoking. He never used the same recipe twice, and those fortunate enough to enjoy his cooking could always expect a new sauce or seasoning each time he stepped behind the grill. His meals were made with care, creativity, and a generous helping of love.
Tom is survived by his wife of 57 years, Diane Hargrove; one daughter, Kim Carper (Kevin) of Benton; two brothers, Gary Hargrove (Debbie) of Mayfield, Jimmy Hargrove (Lisa) of Mayfield; one granddaughter, Kailey Miller (Thomas) of Paducah; two grandchildren, Mabry Grove Miller and Rayna Grace Miller, along with several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Martin Hargrove and Elizabeth Lee Shelton Hargrove.
Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah, with Minister Paul Wingfield officiating. Graveside services will take place on Monday, August 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Kentucky Veterans Cemetery West in Hopkinsville, Kentucky.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah from 10:00 a.m. until the service time of 12:00 p.m.
You may share a memory of Tom or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com
