February 5, 1929 – September 24, 2025 

Thomas Cairns, 96, passed away peacefully on September 24, surrounded by those who loved him. 

Tommy was born in Glasgow, Scotland, to Agnes (Grey) and George Cairns. While working there, he met and married Margaret (Peggy) Rainey before moving to Canada. He began his Canadian journey as a miner in an Ontario gold mine but soon relocated to British Columbia. There, he worked on fishing boats before settling into a career with BC Hydro as a bus driver. He retired in 1989, moving to Surrey and eventually to Langley to be closer to his grandchildren. Tommy lived independently well into his nineties before moving to Kamloops last year. 

Known for his quick wit, Tommy was a gifted storyteller. He once joked that he chose driving a bus because passengers got on and off by themselves — unlike packages. His sense of humour was unmistakable, but he was also known for his big heart, pragmatism, and down-to-earth wisdom. On one charter trip to Scotland, he even volunteered to organize the entertainment to help lower costs — he truly knew how to stretch a dollar. 

Tommy will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his son, George (Pam); son-in-law, Barrie; grandchildren, Jackson (Ciara), Kayla, Megan, and Ian; great-grandson, Carter; sisters, Aileen and Nancy; sister-in-law, Lee; and many extended family members and friends. 

He was predeceased by his wife, Peggy; daughters, Pat and Donna; and siblings, George, Billie, and Myra (Mary). 

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Gemstone and Royal Inland Hospital for their kind and compassionate care. 

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Royal Inland Hospital would be gratefully accepted. 

A service and reception will be held at Gardens of Gethsemani Catholic Cemetery in Surrey, followed by burial at the Gardens of Gethsemani Catholic Cemetery in Surrey. Times and details to be finalize. 

You may offer a message of condolence at Schoening Funeral Service for the Cairns family. 

• Date : 2025-09-24
• Location : Kamloops