Thomas Carroll Warren (July 15, 1931 - February 25, 2026)
CAPT Thomas Carroll Warren USN (Ret.), known affectionately as Tom, completed his earthly journey and was called home by his Lord on February 25, 2026, at the age of 94. Born on July 15, 1931, in the small town of Bethany, Illinois, Tom was a beacon of love, intelligence, and kindness throughout his life. He entered into eternal rest in Woodbridge, Virginia, surrounded by the love of his family. Tom's life was one of dedicated service and academic achievement. After spending a year at Trinity College in Hartford, CT, he was appointed to the U.S. Naval Academy, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1953. Subsequently, he earned a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School. His military career spanned three decades, during which he became a qualified Surface Warfare Officer and Ordnance Engineer. His leadership and expertise were instrumental in the development of the Navy's strategic ballistic Polaris, Poseidon, and Trident missiles. Tom's command posts at Naval Ordnance Station Indian Head, Maryland and Naval Ordnance Station Louisville, Kentucky were marked by excellence and integrity. His service to his country was recognized with numerous awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal (with gold star), Navy Unit Commendation, China Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal (with bronze star), Korean Service Medal, and United Nations Service Medal. In his post-military career, Tom continued to serve the nation by joining VSE as a contractor, where he played a pivotal role in the Harpoon and Tomahawk cruise missile projects. His work ensured the safety and security of the United States and its allies, leaving a legacy of innovation and commitment. His love for his family was profound, and he was a devoted husband to his late wife, Joan Young Warren. He was a cherished father to his children, Thomas Carroll Warren, Jr., Robert Dale Warren, John Michael Warren, Nancy Pleasant Warren (Armour), Lucinda Anne Warren, and Joanne Warren Fearnow. Each of them carries forward the values and lessons he imparted. Beyond his professional achievements, Tom was an active and respected member of the community. He found joy in coaching youth sports; Little League baseball, softball. and was a founding organizer of Braddock Road Youth Football. His involvement with the Isaac Walton League reflected his passion for the outdoors and conservation. Tom was also a skilled marksman, enjoying skeet, trap, and "skrap" shooting. With his friends at the Izaak Walton League Arlington-Fairfax Chapter, he participated in, organized, and won numerous club shooting tournaments. Tom's life was a testament to the power of love, the pursuit of excellence, and the importance of faith. He lived fully, loved generously, and left a legacy that will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him. While we mourn the loss of such a remarkable man, we also celebrate a life well-lived and take solace in the belief that he now rests in the loving arms of his Savior. As we bid farewell to CAPT Thomas Carroll Warren, we reflect on the words of Scripture, "Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your master." (Matthew 25:21). Tom's life was indeed well done, and we find comfort in the hope of eternal life, where we will meet again. Until then, we carry his memory in our hearts, honoring his legacy through our lives.
A funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, Annandale VA on March 13th, with interment at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.
Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home
9902 Braddock Road
Fairfax, VA 22032
(703) 425-9702
https://www.fairfaxmemorialfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Thomas-Carroll-Warren?obId=47450559