Tom, as he was known by one and all, passed away peacefully at home on 
December 10, 2021. He was a life-long lover of life and a man who helped everyone he ever knew. Born in 1935, Tom earned Master’s degrees from Duke University and the University of Michigan and a Ph.D. in Political Science from Harvard University. He joined the U.S. Agency for International Development Foreign Service soon after its founding and served two tours in Dalat, Vietnam, followed by Sudan, Ecuador, Mexico, Panama, Washington, and Russia. After retirement, he lived and worked as a contractor in India and Iraq.
Tom always gave more than he received from his co-workers and friends – in fact, the network of friends of Tom is vast and constituted by people of many cultures, ages, and languages. Tom was particularly adept at the skills of planning, negotiation, and collaboration. He advanced the international development agenda and improved lives and institutions wherever he worked.
Tom lived life large and traveled extensively and well with his many close friends and family. His loving parents predeceased him, and he is survived by many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews to whom Uncle Tom was a huge and positive figure. He was called on to be the officiant at multiple family and friend weddings due to his eloquence, passion, and humor. He was a passionate advocate for gay rights, international peace, human development, and democratic values.
Tom is missed by so many people who know that their lives will always better for having had him as a shining light in their lives. He will always be with us having a great time.
Comments are closed.