Thomas J. Shain

Thomas J. Shain, fondly known as T.J., departed this life on January 25, 2026, at the age of 76. He was born on June 11, 1949, to Lewis G. Shain and Wilfrieda Josten Shain in Tilden, Nebraska, and was raised in the small town of Elgin, Nebraska.

While in Nebraska he married Rose Marie Werner in 1968. In 1971 their daughter, Tara Lynne Shain, was born.

T.J.'s journey took him to Dallas, Texas, in the mid-1980s, where he made a name for himself by building floats for the Cotton Bowl. His work ethic and craftsmanship were also evident during his many years alongside his close friend, Tom Holt, at Holt Tile. In 2010 he married Mary Hennington.

T.J. was a man of many passions; he found joy in cooking, art, and cherishing the moments spent with family and friends as well as enjoying the companionship of animals.

In 2013 he and Mary moved from Dallas to Bosque Count, where he worked with the Steele Creek Volunteer Fire Department and the Cedron Creek Ranch homeowners board.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Mary Hennington of Morgan, TX; his daughter, Tara Lynne Shain of Barcelona, Spain; his sister, Rita Davies of Omaha, NE; his nephew, Brett Beck of Omaha, NE; his niece, Sherry Van Nice of Monticello, KY and his half-sister, Constance Carpenter of San Jose, CA. T.J. is predeceased by his parents, his brother, Dave Shain, and his uncle, Leroy Shain.

A memorial service to honor T.J.'s life will be held on February 14, 2026, at 11:00 AM at the First United Methodist Church, located at 303 South Avenue E, Clifton, TX 76634.

T.J. will be remembered for his warm spirit, love for life, and the indelible mark he left on those who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to FUMC, Clifton, or a pet rescue organization of your choice.