Thomas "Tommy" Dustin Paugh's Obituary
Thomas “Tommy” Dustin Paugh, 50, of Clarendon, Texas, passed away on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in Amarillo, Texas.
Cremation and arrangements are by Robertson Funeral Directors of Clarendon.
A private family service will be held at a later date to celebrate Tommy’s life.
Tommy was born on December 19, 1975, in Dallas, Texas, to Brenda Green and Milton Lynn Paugh. He was raised primarily in Dallas and also lived in North Carolina and Clarendon. For the past five years, Tommy made his home in Clarendon with his uncle, Jody Paugh, and aunt, Delinah Mills, a place he truly loved. While there, he formed a special bond and was “besties” with their granddaughter, Braelynn, bringing joy and laughter to those around him every day.
Tommy had a remarkable gift for lifting spirits. He never met a stranger and was always eager to help others. It was nearly impossible to feel sad in his presence—his warmth, humor, and kindness could brighten anyone’s day. He had a deep love for Batman and other Marvel superheroes, and in his own way, he became a hero as well. Through his attempt to become an organ donor, he earned the special nickname “Captain Heart-Light,” a name that reflects the emotional warmth and “light” often associated with the joy individuals with down syndrome bring to others.
He enjoyed cooking—especially eating the results—playing with his toys, and watching movies. He carried a beautiful childlike spirit throughout his life. His favorite film was The Wizard of Oz, which he watched with great joy time and time again. He also enjoyed “Day Hab” and being with his friends.
Tommy was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, whom he called his mom and dad, Leslie DeeWayne Paugh and Treva (Davidson) Paugh; his uncle, Pete Hanvey; his MawMaw, Brenda McConnell; and special friend, E.J. Durbin.
He is survived by his father and stepmother, Lynn and Claudia Paugh; his mother, Brenda Green; his siblings, Ben Paugh and family, Kristi Chance, Amy VanDyke, Stacee Paugh, Lois Osteen and husband Terry, Lorrie Coats and husband Bill, along with their 4 children and 7 grandchildren; his uncles, Leslie Paugh, Jr., Louis Paugh, Lyle Paugh and wife Tori, Jody Paugh and fiancée Delinah Mills; and Clint McConnell and wife Kathy; his nieces and nephews, Maddison Hicks, and Debi Wilkey and husband Ryan; great-nephew, Lee Wilkey; and numerous cousins including Ashley Paugh and family, Jessica Holland and family, Amanda Lindsey and husband Kyle, Kimbra Mills and boyfriend Seth Fergeson and their daughter Braelynn, Jami McConnell and her son Joseph Coots, and Wade and Dally McConnell; great aunt, Judy Osburn; and many more family members and friends.
Tommy’s life was a blessing to all who knew him. His laughter, love, and light will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Memorial donations can be made to Texas Panhandle Centers, 901 Wallace Blvd., Amarillo, TX, 79106.
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