In Memoriam: Tom Carraher
Without Tom Carraher, there would be no Island of Misfit Toys band!
Tom, together with Jay Harris, founded the Island of Misfit Toys in 2019. Tom was the original lead singer of the Island of Misfit Toys, and he was the band’s front man for more than five years. Tom was an incredible singer, performer, and person – and he remains the spirit and energy behind the Island of Misfit Toys.
Tom’s love of music and performing was contagious. A lifelong Oak Parker, Tom grew up listening to his mother perform on stage in musicals, opera, and choir. He always loved to sing – and he reported that he spent one summer playing The Beatles “Red” and “Blue” greatest hits every day, singing all along the way.
Tom was born to be a performer. But the Island of Misfit Toys was, as Tom told it, his first “real band.” His goal was to not play typical and stale cover band material. Tom instead wanted to design his shows to feel like a two hour listen to WXRT. (Tom was a regular listener of Saturday Morning Flashback, and he texted the band almost every Saturday morning to let them know what year was playing). Tom’s infectious love of music continues to guide the band today.
Tom poured his heart and soul into the Island of Misfit Toys. He and Jay brought the band’s members together. Tom worked tirelessly to grow and build the band—from picking just the right hits from the 80s for the set list, to continuously promoting the band and its performances. And even during his significant health challenges, Tom never ceased to bring his trademark talent, joy, energy, and love of music to every performance.
Tom passed away in 2025 after a courageous battle with cancer. He sang until he was called to sing lead for the Great Gig in the Sky. The remaining members of the “Island” will be forever grateful for Tom’s dear, dear friendship.
Tom reported that he had two goals for this band: Have a blast and make sure everyone left smiling. He sure did deliver.
