Thomas Newton Kearns, Jr.

Thomas Newton Kearns, Jr., 73, of Manning, South Carolina, passed away on August 14, 2025.

Born on September 6, 1951, Tom was the son of the late Thomas Newton Kearns, Sr. and Mildred Ann Brinkley Kearns. He grew up in Asheboro alongside his sister, Natalie Benson, and carried a deep love of family throughout his life.

A proud Marine, Tom served his country honorably and achieved the rank of Sergeant before returning home. He went on to retire from United Brass Works, Inc. in Randleman, North Carolina. Tom married the love of his life, Nancy Kearns, and together they built a 38-year marriage filled with laughter, devotion, and shared passions—from sports to music to simply enjoying each other’s company.

He was the proud father of two sons, Thomas Kearns, III (and wife Melissa) and Adam Kearns (and husband Pierre Perez). His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Thomas Kearns IV, Michael Kearns, and Abigail Kearns. He was also a beloved uncle to his niece, Moment Schweiger (and husband Matt).

Tom’s life was full of passions that reflected his generous spirit and adventurous heart. He loved fishing, golfing, listening to music, and watching sports—always with Nancy by his side. His devotion extended to his community, where he coached both the men’s and women’s soccer teams at Randleman High School, served as a FIFA-certified referee, and volunteered with the Randleman Parks & Recreation Department. He was a certified Black Belt and instructor in the martial art of Songshan Kempo, and a lifetime member of the Marine Corps League.

Above all, Tom will be remembered for his kind heart, his love of animals (especially his puppies, Chewby and Trouble), his pride in his family, and the joy he brought to others with his stories, jokes, and ever-present love of The Beatles and rock ’n’ roll.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Pugh Funeral Home in Randleman, NC (600 S. Main St.) beginning at 2:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 3:00 p.m., with burial immediately after. Friends and Family are invited to continue celebrating Tom’s life at 5:00 p.m. at Sir Pizza in Randleman (Back Room), where memories, laughter, and stories will be shared in true Tom fashion.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Tom’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. 

Pugh Funeral Home in Randleman is honored to serve the Kearns family.