Thomas Walter Peard

Thomas Walter Peard (Tom), 73, passed away peacefully on November 28, 2025, at Bridge Haven in Lawrence, Kansas. A memorial service for Tom is scheduled for 2:00 PM on Friday, December 19, 2025, at Warren-McElwain Mortuary. A burial at Oak Hill Cemetery in Lawrence, KS will follow the memorial service.

Tom was born on April 1, 1952, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Walter and Mary Ann Peard. On June 22, 1974, in Barrington, Illinois, Tom married Janet Lutz, the love of his life.

Tom is survived by his wife Janet, daughter Anna Peard, son Geoffrey Peard, Geoffrey’s wife Maricruz and his granddaughter Sophia Peard. Other survivors include his brother William Peard, his sister Nancy Addison, and his cousins, nieces and nephews.

Tom received a BA in Philosophy from Washington and Lee University in Virginia. He also earned an MA and PhD in Philosophy and a JD from the University of Colorado, Boulder.

Tom began his professional career as an attorney in Aspen and Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Over time, his love of ideas and debate evolved into a second vocation. After teaching philosophy for two years at the University of Colorado, Boulder, Tom joined the Philosophy and Religion Department at Baker University in Baldwin City, Kansas. As a college professor teaching philosophy, Tom pursued his passion for inquiry while encouraging his students to think critically and ethically about life’s most meaningful questions.

Tom lived a life centered on learning. He read widely, wrote often, and delighted in research and spirited conversation. Tom loved to listen to music and to play the piano and violin. Golf and tennis brought him joy and friendly competition, while his love of animals reflected a quiet compassion. Those who knew him will remember Tom as someone who was ethical, curious, and always engaged—thinking, questioning, exploring.

The family wishes to thank all the aides and medical staff who assisted Tom during his Alzheimer's journey. Memorials in Tom’s name may be made to the Lawrence Humane Society or Alzheimer's Association and may be sent in care of Warren McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th St., Lawrence, KS 66049.