Thomas E. Carney, Jr.

Thomas E. Carney, Jr., age 61, of Cairo, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at home.

He was born on March 30, 1965 in Glendale, Arizona to Thomas Edward and Sheryl Elaine (Morrison) Carney.

Tom was a proud graduate of Cairo High School where he played pilot football. 

Tom answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy. Entered service with the Navy in 1985 and served aboard the USS Austin (LPD-4) as an engineman.

 His service included two deployments with the U.S. 6th Fleet on the Mediterranean Sea. Tom was proud of his service and carried the values of discipline and loyalty with him throughout his life. 

Despite navigating significant physical challenges, Tom always kept a positive attitude toward life and he had many friends who thought very highly of him and will miss him dearly. 

Tom was known for his boisterous laugh, inability to whisper, and easy-going spirit.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Edward and Sheryl Elaine (Morrison) Carney; grandparents, Viola and Charles Hood; and aunt and uncle, Phyllis and Jerry Kepner.

He is survived by his brother, Stephen D. Carney; along with a multitude of extended family and friends.

A Graveside service with interment was  held on Friday, May 1 with Rev. Larry Potts officiating at Spencer Heights Cemetery in Mounds, Ill. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests with gratitude that memorials may be made to the Cairo Public Library.

Crain Funeral Home in Cairo is in charge of arrangements.