Thomas Duffy Work passed on peacefully after a brief illness surrounded by his loving family in Oklahoma City on December 1, 2018. Cherished son of James E. Work (1927-2011) and Dorothy Duffy Work (1928-2007); adored brother of Cindy Work Abell of Austin, Texas and J. Kelly Work of Oklahoma City; and beloved brother-in-law of Greg Abell of Austin, Texas and sister-in-law Janis Powers of Oklahoma City. He was also beloved by his nieces and nephews, Kelley and Andrew Abell and Michael and Elizabeth Work. He is also survived by his dear cousins and their families, Dian and Leon Williams, Dan and Timmye Donnell, Dave and Cammie Donnell, and Debbie and Terry Brownrigg.
Born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma on October 3, 1960, Tom graduated from Putnam City High School in 1979 and from Francis Tuttle Technology Center in 1983, where he was named Student of the Year in two separate programs. Tom worked for Hertz Corporation in Oklahoma City for 24 years. He continued his career at Epworth Villa Retirement Community where he recently celebrated his 10th anniversary.
His wonderful qualities made him adored by co-workers, friends, and family alike. For those who were blessed to know him, Tom showed us all how to live --gently, honestly, with persistence, hard work and always a touch of humor. He met every challenge and surpassed expectations in every phase of his life. His unfailing dedication to his work made him an extremely valued employee. His easy going and happy temperament made him a joy to be around. Tom cherished every opportunity to be with family and friends and shared countless happy times with them, including many wonderful celebrations, Sooner football games and fun-filled days at the lake. Tom’s deep love of his family and friends and their love in return will ensure that he lives on in their hearts. We are eternally grateful for Tom’s beautiful life as an expression of God’s love, in whose arms he is now enfolded. Services celebrating his life will be held at Hahn Cook Funeral Home, located at 6600 Broadway Extension at 1:00pm on Thursday, December 6, 2018. Reception following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the University of Oklahoma Foundation Memorial Scholarship Fund, PO Box 258856, Oklahoma City, OK 73125.