Thomas Henry MacPherson

Thomas Henry MacPherson Jr. passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, November 9, 2024. He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas H. MacPherson; mother, Patricia Ann MacPherson; brother, Brian MacPherson; and wife, Johanna MacPherson. He is survived by his sister, Kelly MacPherson-Levy; brother, Kevin MacPherson; and his children, Alec MacPherson and Nelle Kate MacPherson. 

Tom was an artist and a sensitive soul who deeply enjoyed connection. He loved storytelling, often spending hours conversing and hearing the tales of both strangers and friends. He was frequently described as charming, handsome, intelligent, and witty, with a remarkable memory, surprising people by recalling details they had shared, even years later. A lover of music and art, he collected many beautiful works and had a discerning eye for color and design. As a passionate student of history, he relished traveling and learning languages, fluently speaking Spanish, French, and Russian. 

Born on June 24, 1950, in Seattle, Washington, Tom was the oldest of four children of Tom Sr. and Patricia MacPherson. He played football at Seattle Prep, earning the nickname “Mack Truck” for his formidable blocking skills. He later graduated from the University of Washington with a BA in History. His love of history led him to study North West Coast Indigenous culture and artwork. Native lore and crafts were interests he nurtured throughout his life. He even learned to carve and paint in the traditional North West native style. 

In 1980, he married Joann Ellen Corn, and together they welcomed their first child, Alexander Henry MacPherson, in 1984, followed by their second child, Ellen Kathleen MacPherson, in 1989. The family moved to Booneville, MO, in 1990. Tom opened Espresso Arno, the first coffee shop in Columbia, Missouri. Here, he forged many friendships within the community and enjoyed conversations with musicians who performed at the Blue Note, which was next door to the small café. 

In later years, he made a career as a master interior painter, and developed a sought after style. By studying faux painting techniques, he was able to elevate his craft. His work could blend color and texture to stunning effect. Throughout his life, Tom made lasting connections in Palm Desert, CA, and Gearhart, OR, where he made his final home. He loved the ocean and the beach, which inspired his fondness for painting with watercolors late in life. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him.