Thomas Milton Waugh was born February 14, 1948 in the Old West town of Deadwood, South Dakota to Louis and Clarice Waugh. From an early age he was enamored by the West and its history. More than 30 years ago he began painting. He had no formal education in the arts, but a lifetime of experience as an Indian Trader. He had many adventurous careers: a lawman, saloon owner, outlaw, railroader, sheep rancher, art collector, historian and writer. One of his political cartoons was discussed in the New York Times. His artwork was featured in galleries all across the West from New Mexico to Montana.

Tom was a wonderful father and husband, a beloved character and friend. For nine years he was married to a member of the Oglala Sioux tribe, Linda "Squeak" Herman. From this union two children were born: Michael and Brenda. After they divorced, Tom met Twylia Thomas who became his wife of 38 years. Around this time the family moved to a cabin constructed by Tom, Ron, and Louis Waugh (with a little help from everyone) near Hulett, Wyoming. At the homestead in Wyoming, two children blessed this union: Jeremiah and Sunny. This became Tom's permanent home to plan and have many adventures. He raised his family and lived his life in that little cabin in the woods. After the children had been raised, Tom and Twylia lived true artists' lives. They traveled and Tom painted year round; feast and famine, living by their wits and answering to no one. He lived his life on his terms and made everyone he chose to share it with feel lucky.

Tom Waugh moved on to his next adventures on April 24, 2016 at his beloved log cabin. He was preceded in death by his father, Louis Waugh and his brother Ron Waugh. Tom is survived by his mother Clarice Waugh, wife Twylia, children Mike (Barbara) Waugh, Brenda (Jim) Reimer, Jeremiah (Keagin) Waugh, and Sunny (James) MacFadden, six grandchildren, one great-grandchild with two more great grandchildren soon to arrive. He also has one brother, Bill (Peggy) Waugh of Rapid City, SD, numerous nieces and nephews, and many members of extended family.

Inurnment will take place at the family cemetery on Strawberry Hill Road at a later time