Thomas Morgan Steagall

Thomas "Tommy" Morgan Steagall, 64, passed away on Sunday, October 12, 2025, after bravely battling ALS for three years. Born November 2, 1960, Tom was the son of the late Barbara Morgan Maddrey and James Gordon Steagall. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Gordon Levoy ("Lee") Steagall.

Raised in Chapel Hill, Tom formed lifelong bonds from childhood friends riding dirt bikes through "Tommy's Trails" to his college years at Western Carolina University where he graduated along with his fraternity brothers, and best friends, of Tau Kappa Epsilon. He often said he became the man he was thanks to the guidance of his grandfather, E.L. "Jimmy" Morgan, whose steady influence shaped Tom's values of loyalty, integrity, and keeping one's word.

A natural-born leader and gifted uniter of people, Tom built a successful career as an entrepreneur and businessman across several ventures. Whether building companies, mentoring colleagues, or simply bringing folks together around a shared goal, he led with conviction, optimism, and follow-through.

Tom loved good music, good sport, and good company. His soundtrack ran from the Allman Brothers to Jimmy Buffett, Little Feat, Tedeschi Trucks, and more. He was a devoted Tar Heel fan who rarely missed a chance to cheer with friends. He appreciated quality beers shared with quality people, family and friends alike.
Tom was lucky enough to find comfort in his happy place over the years. From childhood years at his grandfather's house in North Myrtle Beach to his own house at Emerald Isle, it was rare to find him happier than when he was in the sun by the water with music playing from a speaker nearby.

Tom is survived by his wife of 38 years, Ann Fish-Steagall, children Morgan Steagall and Cameron Steagall, brother Michael Steagall (Elise Steagall), sister Julia Hash (Scott Hash), nieces Lauren and Tori Steagall, and Patricia Hash, nephew Matthew Hash, brother-in-law, Steve Fish, and a wide-reaching circle of beloved friends from Chapel Hill, Western Carolina, TKE, Black Horse Run, and beyond. He remained close to these friends to the very end, grateful for their steadfast presence through good times and bad.

A celebration of Tom's life will be held on November 23 from 3pm - 6pm at Cat's Cradle in Carrboro, NC. Family and friends are invited to share stories, music, and fellowship in his honor.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to ALS United of North Carolina in Tom's memory.

https://alsnc.org/donate/

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