THOMAS W. DABNEY
1940-2021
Thomas W. Dabney, age 80, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, August 7, 2021.
Tommy was born on September 28, 1940, in Houston, Texas, to Virgil C. Dabney and Katie Mae Wilcox Dabney. He graduated from Stephen F. Austin High School (Houston) and Texas A&M University. As a member of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Class of 1962, Tommy was in the Corps of Cadets serving in Squadrons 9 and 11 as an underclassman before serving as 3rd group commander his senior year. He accepted a commission in the United States Air Force upon graduation in 1962. Tommy enjoyed a successful 57-year career in the Houston business community.
Tommy and Joy Hambrick, elementary school sweethearts, married in June 1962. Together they raised four devoted children who blessed them with ten beautiful grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Tommy was extremely proud of his children and grandchildren, and he never missed an opportunity to express this to them.
His family will remember him for his many great qualities, but most of all, for his resilience. He was a man of honor who fiercely protected and generously provided for his family. His support, counsel, and devotion to his family and friends knew no bounds. Tommy loved Aggie football, weekends in the hill country, watching his grandchildren excel in academics and extracurricular activities, and singing along to Merle Haggard and George Jones. But above all, Tommy loved Joy. His love was never more evident than in the last two years when he lovingly and unselfishly cared for Joy. He was by her side when she passed on July 29, 2021.
Tommy is preceded in his death by his parents, Virgil and Katie Mae Dabney, and wife, Joy Dabney. He is survived by his children: Molly (and Edgar) Carlson, Tracey (and Rick) Carlson, Stephen Dabney (and Jane Dabney), and Travis (and Krista) Dabney. He is also survived by his grandchildren - Katie Starkey and husband J.W., Cooper Carlson, Caroline Carlson, Travis Carlson, Emily Carlson, Evan Carlson, Ethan Dabney, Emma Dabney, Kennedy Dabney, and Thomas William Dabney II - and two greatgrandchildren - Spencer Kate Starkey and Palmer Leigh Starkey. He is also survived by his brother, Robert C. Dabney and nephew, Michael Dabney.
The family will gather for a private memorial service to honor both Thomas and Joy.
In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations be made to the Mays School of Business, Accounting Department c/o Texas A&M Foundation 401 George Bush Drive, College Station, Texas 77840, or to a charity of your choice.