Thomas Carney Kilgallon, beloved son, brother, uncle, godfather, cousin, and friend, passed away on May 26, 2025, in Oklahoma City. Tom was born in the Bronx, New York, on July 11, 1965. His family later relocated to Brussels, Belgium, before settling in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. He graduated in 1983 as a member of the first class of the newly consolidated Bartlesville High School.

Tom continued his education at St. Gregory's Catholic College in Shawnee, where he thrived in the theater and drama department, starring in several productions. There, he made countless lifelong friends — a theme that would define much of his life. He cherished reunions with his beloved "St. Greg's gang." After graduating from St. Gregory's, Tom attended Oklahoma State University, earning a BA in Journalism and Broadcasting. During college summers, Tom hosted a nightly television news program focused on Bartlesville's news and events, aspiring to be the next Dan Rather.

After graduation, he headed straight to New York City to begin working for Blair Media, a national rep firm. Being back in New York was especially meaningful for Tom, as many aunts, uncles, and cousins lived in the area. He had a particularly close bond with the Donnellan family, who welcomed and supported him as he launched his career.

In 1996, Tom was recruited to Los Angeles by Seltel, a national spot television firm. He was thrilled to be at the heart of the television world in Southern California. For nearly two decades, he reveled in the glitz and glamour of LA, hosting family and friends and showing them iconic filming locations, celebrity neighborhoods, and Academy Award sites. He first lived in Brentwood and later bought a home in Sherman Oaks — both places he adored.

Tom also enjoyed a lengthy and successful career with the premium local Los Angeles affiliate of Fox. With experience in both New York and LA, Tom worked in the #1 and #2 media markets in the country.

Tom had a remarkable gift for mentorship and took great joy in helping newcomers to the industry. Eventually, he sought a slower pace, away from the hustle of city life, and returned to Oklahoma to be closer to family and friends. He took roles with Cox, Fox, and later KOCO in Oklahoma City. Though he excelled professionally, Tom will be remembered not for titles or accolades, but for his kindness, warmth, and unwavering support of others. Most recently, he returned to the agency world he loved, working at Equipped Marketing.

Family and friends meant everything to Tom. He was extremely close to cousins in Dallas, New York, and Ireland, always staying in frequent touch. He was godfather to three and was always ready to share a pint or offer a kind word when someone needed support. Tom truly was "the glue" of the family — never missing a wedding, funeral, or first communion. He was the first to call in a time of need, and his infectious spirit lifted all those around him. His laughter and presence made life feel a little lighter, and his impact was felt by all who knew him.

Tom's deep Catholic faith guided his life. He was an active member of St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Oklahoma City, faithfully serving as a lector and sacristan. He will be deeply missed by his parents, Tom and Mary Kilgallon of Naperville, IL; his sister, Allison, and her husband, Peter Abe, of Naperville, IL, and their children: Kevin (Chicago), John and wife Kate (Dallas), and Kathryn (Boston); his brother John and wife Melody Kilgallon of Edmond, OK, and their children: Jack (Dallas), Mary Kate, and Will (Edmond); his godchildren Kevin, Will, and Kelly Rau Tipton; as well as dozens of beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless former colleagues in the TV and media industry.

In his honor, let us follow his lead: reach out to an old friend, check in on loved ones, and cherish the moments of love and laughter that life offers. Life doesn't have to be this tough.

Sláinte!