Thomas M. Smith

Thomas Martin Smith, age 85, of Newark, DE passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 10th, 2025.

Thomas was the cherished son of Hugh Smith and Veronica (Hogan) Smith. After graduating from high school, he went on to earn his degree from St. Joseph's University, where he laid the foundation for a successful career.

For many years, Thomas devoted his professional life to pharmaceutical sales with Pennwalt Corporation. His integrity and passion for helping others were evident in every interaction he had throughout his career.

In his personal life, Thomas was a devoted husband to his late wife, Rosemary O'Hanlon-Smith, and a loving father to his children. He was preceded in death by Rosemary, his son, Thomas Sean Smith, and his step-son, Joseph O'Hanlon. He leaves behind his son, Bret Smith, and his wife, Reynell, of Durango, CA; his daughter, Amber Rhodes, and her husband, Ron, of Dover, DE; and his son, James O'Hanlon of Newark, DE. He was proud of his three grandsons, Liam Smith, Luke Smith, and Johnny O’Hanlon, who brought him immense joy and pride.

Thomas was deeply involved in his community and dedicated considerable time to various organizations, including the Fort Delaware Society, where he contributed to the preservation and interpretation of historic Fort Delaware. A passionate historian, he was also an active member of his church, teaching CCD at Holy Angels Catholic Church, and participated in the Central Delaware Civil War Roundtable. His love for history was only matched by his enthusiasm for traveling the world, exploring historic sites, and capturing memories through photography.

In addition to his intellectual pursuits, Thomas was a man of vitality. He enjoyed his daily walks and was a regular at the gym, where he found joy in maintaining an active lifestyle. He was known for his warmth, wisdom, and the infectious laughter that he shared with those around him.

A memorial service for Thomas will be held at 11AM on Monday, June 2nd, 2025 at the Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Rd., Wilmington, DE 19808. Family and friends are welcome to visit beginning at 10:30AM. Interment will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Thomas’s name to the Fort Delaware Society, https://www.fortdelaware.org/

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