Thomas MacRoy Obituary

MacRoy, Thomas

Dr. Thomas David MacRoy, a compassionate and dedicated clinical psychologist, husband, and father passed away on March 28, 2026. Born on November 9, 1946, in Chicago, he lived a life marked by service to others, intellectual curiosity, and a deep appreciation for the world around him.

Tom's academic journey began at George Williams College, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree. He went on to pursue advanced studies in clinical psychology, earning a Master's degree from Roosevelt University and culminating in a Ph.D. from Utah State University. His clinical training included internships at Northwestern and the Hines VA Hospital.

After several years as a staff psychologist at the Hines VA, Tom maintained a private practice in Hinsdale and Naperville for over 45 years. Countless individuals and families benefited from his empathetic and attentive care. While always providing a compassionate ear, he was uncommonly adept at using humor to bring levity at difficult times. He also loved storytelling as a means to heal, educate, and sometimes to entertain.

His work extended beyond his practice; he provided mentoring and professional growth to those at the start of their careers and was actively involved with the Illinois Psychological Association. Tom made a lasting impact on the lives of those he worked with.

Outside of his professional life, Tom had a wide range of interests that reflected his thoughtful and curious personality. He was deeply engaged in politics with a focus on humanitarianism and small-d democracy, always striving to understand how history could inform present-day challenges. A lover of American folk and blues music, he found joy in its rich cultural heritage, often sharing it with his family and friends. Family lore includes many stories of concerts where his son was the youngest member of the audience. He also cherished traveling, especially appreciating the grandeur of the western United States, exploring with his family the mountains and national parks. Tom had an enduring affection for dogs. Along with Hannibal, Clouseau, or Clancy, he could be found chasing squirrels through the off-leash areas of DuPage County.

He is survived by Robbie, his loving wife of 54 years; their son Patrick; his sister Ellen; and seven nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly. He was predeceased by his brother Bob.

Tom will be remembered not only for his professional achievements but also for his warmth, wit, and unwavering compassion. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched both personally and professionally. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

An informal Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday April 23, 2026 as an open-house from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Morton Arboretum's Sycamore Room, 4100 IL-53, Lisle, Illinois. Celebration guests will be provided complementary parking and access to explore the grounds.

In memory of Tom, donations may be made to the ACLU.

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