Thomas Francis McDonough

Friday, Apr. 19, 2024

Thomas Francis McDonough

Thomas Francis McDonough, devoted father, grandfather, brother and beloved member of the community, died peacefully on April 5, 2024 surrounded by many loved ones after a life very well-lived.

Tom was born in Salt Lake City, the fifth of six children, to Bartley Gerard McDonough, Esq. and Victoria (nee Pitman) McDonough. The family spent Tom’s early years in Portland, Oregon, before returning to Utah.

Tom graduated from East High School, Class of ’58. In 1976, Tom joined his mentor, friend and business partner Paul F. Oliver (d. 1993), opening Paul-Thomas Jewelers at 6 West, then at 57 West Second South. Tom’s attention to aesthetics and detail defined his life’s career as a trusted and well-known local jeweler. Tom’s retail career began after high school working with O.C. Tanner Jewelers, first sweeping floors, then working his way to the position of assistant store manager.

As a successful local business owner, Tom built a trustworthy reputation for quality and service recognized by the SLC Chamber of Commerce, and the Downtown Retail Merchants Association, in the face of expanding national jewelry franchises. After 40 years in business, when Tom’s health began to decline, Paul-Thomas Jewelers closed in 2016.

He was a graduate of the Gemological Institute of America, and a member of the National Association of Jewelers. 

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Bartley John, James Patrick and Robert Stanley McDonough; and former spouse Annette Pettey McDonough. He is survived by siblings Marie Theresa (Larry Bott, d. 2015) of Murray and Joseph Michael McDonough of Las Vegas, Nevada. Tom is survived by daughters Peggy (Patrick Jan), and Jayne (Patrick McLaughlin); grandchildren Claudie A. Jan (Samuel K. Johnson), Martine M. Jan, Kurt N. McLaughlin and Cameron K. McLaughlin, all of Salt Lake City; and many nieces and nephews.

As a proud descendent of Irish heritage, Tom marched in many St. Patrick’s Day parades with his beloved McDonough cousins and nurtured ensuing generations to do the same. He supported Utah Catholic Schools, in particular J.E. Cosgriff Memorial School and Judge Memorial Catholic High School.

A proud champion of his two daughters, Tom is remembered as an ardent provider, and a caring father. 

A wake will be held on Friday, May 10, 6-8 p.m. at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Millcreek. Graveside services will be conducted at Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery on Saturday, May 11, at 11 a.m.