Thomas Patrick Daly

Thomas Patrick Daly, age 88, passed away on December 29, 2025, in Visalia, California. He was born on March 31, 1937, in Tomsallagh, Enniscorthy, County Wexford, Ireland, a place that remained an important part of his identity throughout his life. Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Eileen Daly, to whom he was married for 51 years. He was a devoted father to his children, Ann Daly Leahy (Garrett) and Sean Daly (Rochelle), and the proud "Pop Pop" (grandfather) to Jack Daly, his only grandson, who brought him immense joy. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Mary Ann Daly, and by his siblings: Sister Mary Rosario Daly, Lar Daly (Lizzie), and Anne Greene (John). He is also survived by his loving siblings: Hilary Reck (Johnny), Peter Daly (Mary), Bill Daly (Emily), and Margaret Daly. Tom was also the beloved uncle to countless nieces and nephews in Ireland and America, and he proudly served as Godfather to fifteen children, a role he cherished deeply. Tom was a man of unwavering faith and a devoted member of the Catholic Church. Though small in stature and still speaking with his thick Irish accent, after all these years, he was known for having never met a stranger. He truly embodied how Jesus calls us to treat others, with kindness, humility, and love. Tom would sit with strangers in hospitals to pray with them, attend funerals for people he had never met, and was widely regarded as one of the nicest men anyone had ever known. A man of profound faith, Tom attended church every day after retirement, and his devotion inspired everyone who knew him. Tom was a voracious reader with a lifelong thirst for knowledge. There was rarely a topic he could not thoughtfully discuss or passionately debate. His curiosity and intellect were defining traits, and his love of learning never faded. Tom was also an accomplished athlete, particularly in the Gaelic sport of hurling. He proudly represented County Wexford, wearing the purple and gold with great pride. In recognition of his achievements and dedication to the sport, he was inducted into the Gaelic Athletic Association and Wexford Old Gaelic Community Hall of Fame in 2015. He founded Daly's Lawn and Yard Service, a business he operated for 45 years. Many of his clients became lifelong friends, and to countless children he was affectionately known as "Lawnmower Tom." Tom was lovingly known as "Pop Pop" to his grandson, Jack, with whom he shared an extraordinary bond. They spoke on the phone multiple times a day, right up until the day Tom passed away, a relationship filled with love, laughter, and constant encouragement. As proud as he was of his children, Ann and Sean, Tom took immense pride in the young man Jack was becoming and in all of his accomplishments. Pop Pop delighted in hearing about Jack's life, especially which girls he might be talking to, and never missed an opportunity to remind him that he carried the "Daly gene," joking that he would have to spend the rest of his life being chased by women. Tom was equally proud of Jack's choices, athletic, academic, and most importantly, his decision to follow Jesus Christ. Their relationship was marked by affection, humor, and a deep, abiding love that will forever be cherished. Tom's remarkable life will be remembered for his unwavering faith, boundless kindness, and love for family. He touched the lives of all who knew him, whether as a devoted husband and father, a proud grandfather, a friend, or a neighbor. In honoring his memory, we are reminded to stay close to God, trusting that He is always in control. We can carry Tom's spirit forward by sharing a smile, offering a kind word, and taking the time to say, "How are you doing?" His devotion to God, his family, and the people around him leaves a legacy that will continue to inspire, and he will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever cherished. Rosary will be held 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Friday, January 30th, 2026 at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 608 N. Church Street, Visalia. Memorial Mass services will be held 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Saturday, January 31st, 2026 at St Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 5049 W Caldwell, Visalia. Inurnment will be held 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM Saturday, January 31st, 2026 at St Charles Borromeo Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to St. Charles Building Fund or George McCann Catholic School. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Thomas Patrick Daly

February 28, 1937 - December 29, 2025