Thomas "Tommy" Archibald McRae

Mr. Thomas “Tommy” Archibald McRae, 65, of Lillington passed away Saturday, August 31, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born in Harnett County, the son of the late David Floyd McRae, Sr. and Betty McRae Pauley. In addition to his parents, Tommy was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Dougald and Cathryn “Big Mama” McRae; maternal grandparents, Dee and Ethel Collins.

Tommy was a man of action.  Where he couldn't find the words, his gestures stood as an example to exactly how he felt.  Tommy was a loving husband, father, Pa, son, brother, uncle, cousin and friend; and with each of these titles he felt honored. His character and values in life were planted firmly in all he did, while living to serve others in need.  Family was his purpose behind every move, and if you were his friend you became just that, family.  There wasn't much he couldn't fix or do but when one occurred, you could rest assured he would learn and master it too.  In Tommy's professional life he became a General Contractor and his passion for that service led to great success.  He enjoyed working with his hands, days on the water, golfing, Nascar, cooking on the grill, entertaining large groups of people and sharing his life with all those he loved.  His two Grandsons were the apple of his eye and he was the very best Pa.  While his absence here on Earth leaves a void that cannot be filled, heaven rejoiced when he returned home.   

Tommy is survived by his wife of 38 years, LaRue Johnson McRae of the home; daughter, Chelsey Cabe (Zachary) of Lillington, son, Thomas McRae (Abby) of Wilmington, son, Matthew McRae of Lillington; 2 grandsons, McRae and Barrett Cabe; step-father, William Pauley of Lillington; sister, Jean McRae (Mike) of Savannah, GA, brother, David McRae, Jr. of Lillington, sister, Robin Stilley (Jeff) of New Bern, NC, sister, Jill O’Bannion (Bobby) of Shallotte, NC; many brother and sister-in-laws, nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at Summerville Presbyterian Church with Rev. Tom Brown officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends after the graveside service at the cemetery.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made to Summerville Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 640, Lillington, NC 27546.

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