On January 08, 2023, Thomas F. Henry of Remsenburg passed away.
Born April 17, 1945, to Michael B. Henry and Mary (Mc Gowan) Henry, Tom grew up with his siblings, Mary, and Michael in Park Slope, Brooklyn. His friends described him as generous, perceptive, and unassuming. He was considered a wise and caring soul.
After four years of service in the U.S. Army, Tom became an Air Traffic Controller, eventually finding his way to Suffolk County Government. He retired as a Senior Probation Officer, overseeing caseloads during his career. He was appointed to serve a term as Assistant to the Director of Probation. He loved politics was very knowledgeable and was a participant on many levels.
Tom cherished the time he shared with Harriet at the Swordfish Beach Club, spending time poolside reading and listening to Yankee baseball. An avid reader he always had a book to recommend or to share. The couple were often seen taking long strolls on the beach in search of sea glass.
Tom and Harriet set out to fulfill a shared dream to visit National Parks. In a determined way, ignoring all the obstacles, they spent two years on unpredictable adventures with many stories of unforeseen snowstorms, beautiful sunrises in the Canyons, and magical terrain that they would capture in their hearts and photos. Sharing special moments just the two of them like the sunrise at the Grand Canyon.
Tom and Harriet shared a passion for wildlife. In the fall, they took daily walks in Quogue Wildlife Refuge. On chilly winter days, the geese greeted them at the gate knowing Tom would have a stash of cracked corn. A daily outing also included sitting in the car, having lunch, and watching the Osprey nest in Westhampton. They shared six seasons with their Osprey family. As the Osprey migrated, the couple’s visits continued daily through winter enjoying the wildlife and beauty of the wetlands and adjacent beach. It was a place Tom loved, where he found peace and comfort in his life.
Tom is survived by his life partner Harriet, his sister Mary and husband Vincent Kelley, niece Julia, her husband Jesse Mac Donald, and nephew Brendan; his beloved cousins Grace and James Gordon and Carol Gordon. He is predeceased by his beloved brother and best friend Michael, and his second favorite girl, Maggie, Tom and Harriet rescued from a shelter.
Thank you to our second family, Sally, Kerry and Judy, who shared their family Christmas that continued for the past l5 years. Their love, care and support are a true blessing.
In lieu of a wake, Tom wished to have a July gathering at the Swordfish Beach Club. A memorial service, officiated by Reverend Kerry, is planned.
A donation in Tom’s name to the Quogue Wildlife Refuge, East End Hospice, or Group for the East End, would be appreciated.
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