TAURANGA, New Zealand — Thomas Patrick Cooney, affectionately known as Tom, died on October 16, 2026, following a sudden illness, according to his published family obituary. He was 37 years old. His passing has brought profound sadness to his wife, Lizzie; their children, Jack and Ferg; his parents, Terry and Julie; his brother; and the many relatives, friends and colleagues whose lives he touched. In the family’s announcement, Tom was remembered as a deeply loved husband, father, son, brother and friend. His sudden death has left an immeasurable void in the lives of those closest to him, who are now facing the difficult task of navigating life without someone they cherished. Remembering Thomas Patrick “Tom” Cooney Born on April 13, 1989, Tom was remembered through his family’s heartfelt announcement as someone whose presence meant a great deal to the people around him. His family expressed the depth of their grief, describing the difficulty of comprehending a world without him. Their message reflected the profound impact of his passing and the enduring love they will continue to carry for him. Tom’s life was connected to family, friendship and the relationships he built throughout his years. Messages of condolence published alongside his obituary reflect the sadness felt by people who knew him, including friends and workmates who shared their memories and expressed support for his loved ones. Although his life ended unexpectedly, the memories held by his family and friends will remain an important part of his legacy. Family Mourns the Sudden Loss Tom is survived by his wife, Lizzie, and their two children, Jack and Ferg. He was also a beloved son of Terry and Julie and a much-loved brother. His family’s announcement conveyed the immense pain caused by his sudden passing. For his wife and children, his absence represents the loss of a cherished family member whose place in their lives cannot be replaced. Relatives, friends and members of his wider community have shared messages of sympathy and support as the family mourns. The obituary also provided an address for people wishing to send messages to the Cooney family through Jones & Company Funeral Services in Tauranga. Thomas Patrick Cooney Personal Details Detail Information Full name Thomas Patrick Cooney Commonly known as Tom Date of birth April 13, 1989 Date of death October 16, 2026 Age at death 37 Place associated with the obituary Tauranga, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand Spouse Lizzie Children Jack and Ferg Parents Terry and Julie Brother Name not stated in the published notice Occupation Not stated in the published obituary Funeral provider Jones & Company Funeral Services Thomas Cooney Death Details Detail Information Name Thomas Patrick “Tom” Cooney Date of death October 16, 2026 Age 37 Reported cause Sudden illness, according to the family obituary Specific medical condition Not disclosed Funeral service October 22, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Service venue St Mary Immaculate Church, Tauranga Funeral provider Jones & Company Funeral Services Funeral and Final Farewell According to the family’s published obituary, Tom’s funeral service was scheduled for Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at St Mary Immaculate Church, on the corner of Elizabeth Street and Cameron Road in Tauranga. The service offered family members, friends and others who knew Tom an opportunity to gather, pay their respects and honour his life. As the scheduled service date has passed, anyone seeking additional information or memorial updates should consult the family’s original obituary or contact Jones & Company Funeral Services. Messages for the Cooney family were directed through the funeral home at PO Box 650, Tauranga 3144. A Lasting Tribute to Tom Cooney Thomas Patrick Cooney’s passing at 37 has left his family and friends grieving a life cut short. His family’s announcement reflects the depth of their love and the difficulty of coming to terms with his sudden absence. As they remember Tom, his wife, children, parents, brother and friends will carry forward the memories and relationships that made him an important part of their lives. He will be remembered as a much-loved husband, father, son, brother and friend whose loss has deeply affected those who knew him. May his family find comfort in the support of their loved ones and in the memories they will continue to cherish. Disclaimer This article is based on the published family obituary carried by The New Zealand Herald and SunLive. The family described Tom’s death as following a sudden illness, but no specific medical diagnosis was disclosed. Funeral details are reproduced from the published notice and may be subject to updates from the family or funeral provider. Share this... Facebook Pinterest Twitter Linkedin Threads Post navigation Leena Rangiawha Obituary-Death: Waikato, New Zealand, Whānau Announce Final Farewell Celia Pickens Obituary-Death: Veteran New Zealand Horsewoman Dies in Fatal Showjumping Accident