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CANFIELD -- Thomas F. Shugart III, 86, passed away Friday morning, Feb. 20, 2026, at his residence. Proud to be known as "the Youngstown Kid," he carried that identity throughout his life, defined by grit, loyalty and an unwavering work ethic.
Born May 5, 1939, Tom was the oldest of nine siblings and set the example early for strength, responsibility and perseverance.
He attended North High School before enlisting in the United States Navy in 1956 at just 17 years old. During his military service, he served as a boiler tender aboard the USS Henley (DD-762) and briefly aboard the USS Conway (DD-507), before his honorable discharge in 1962.
Following his military service, Tom became one of the area's most respected and talented carpenters. He was proud of his partnership with his brother, Bill, in Shugart Brothers Construction, and later as a dedicated member of Carpenters Union Local 171. The world may not have known a man who worked harder. He was known for his work ethic, honesty, and integrity, qualities that became the foundation of his family and are carried on and cherished by each of his children.
If he wasn't building something, he was coaching, flying or cheering on his teams. Tom spent countless hours on the softball field, most notably serving as assistant coach for Western Reserve High School Varsity Softball from 2001 to 2018. During that time, the teams earned five league championships and six district championships. Long after he stepped off the field, he remained known simply as "The Legend."
He was also an avid pilot who treasured time in his Cessna 172, finding both freedom and peace in the sky. A devoted fan of the Cleveland Browns and the Cleveland Indians, he rarely missed a game and often reflected on the Browns teams of the late 1940s and 1950s, holding onto the hope that he would one day see that level of greatness return.
Above all, Tom was a devoted member of Heritage Baptist Church. His faith in Christ anchored his life. He cherished his relationship with his Lord and Savior and is now peacefully reunited with Him.
He was preceded in death by his late wife, Kathy Shugart; his eldest daughter, Kathy Thompson; his brother, Jerry Shugart; his sister, Nancy Shugart; his grandson, Robert Sangster; and his beloved parents and grandparents.
Left to cherish his memory are his children, Victoria Shugart, Ingrid Shugart, Ursula (Ed) Fabian, Shannon (Todd) Perren, Melissa (Robert) Sangster, Thomas F. Shugart IV and Tiffany (Phil) Westbay; also to be remembered by Candy Shugart and Rocky Kennedy; along with 17 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
He was a proud grandfather and great-grandfather. Time spent with his grandchildren was among his greatest blessings, and his bond with his granddaughter Ava reflected the deep love he had for his family.
Thomas lived a life defined by strength, discipline, loyalty and faith. His legacy is not only found in the structures he built, the teams he coached, or the miles he flew, but in the generations who carry forward his integrity, his determination, and the standard he set.
In lieu of flowers, consider honoring his legacy by supporting the Western Reserve Baseball and Softball Organization, helping provide opportunities for young athletes to grow in discipline, teamwork and character, the values he held dear. Donations may be made via Venmo at @WRBOBlueDevils or by mailing a check to WRBO, P.O. Box 81, Ellsworth, Ohio 44416.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 26, at the Lane Funeral Home Canfield Chapel, 65 N. Broad St., Canfield.
Friends may call one hour prior to services, from 10 to 11 a.m. Thursday, at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest in the Tod Homestead Cemetery in Youngstown.
This obituary may be viewed and condolences can be sent by visiting www.lanefuneralhomes.com.
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