R. Thomas “Tom” Whitehead passed away on March 31, 2026, at the age of 81, surrounded by loved ones, and finally freed from the constraints of Alzheimer’s disease.
Born on November 26, 1944, in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, Tom was a decorated Marine veteran who served four consecutive tours in Vietnam. He was known for his love for the ocean and a life well spent aboard his boat, the Bonnie Jean. For many years, East Greenwich Bay was his home and workplace. He was a commercial quahogger and diver by day, and a dedicated HVAC mechanic at Brown University by night. After he retired from Brown University, Tom spent his winters traveling along the Intracoastal, visiting friends and freely exploring Florida's warm beaches and waterways.
Though Alzheimer’s stole Tom’s independence on the ocean, his love for nature and his desire to be outdoors could not be taken away. His family is grateful for the peace he has found and is thankful for the support and care he received from Comfort Keepers, the VA Hospital of RI, and Hope Health Hospice.
Tom was predeceased by his parents, Wilfred Jr. and Jean Whitehead, and his grandparents, Wilfred and Rose Whitehead, whom he loved and adored. He was also predeceased by his infant son, Thomas Stephen Whitehead. Tom is survived by his loving sister, Cheryl B. O’Connor, and his nieces, Deborah Jacobson, Susan O’Connor, Lisa Erb, and Cheri Pierce, as well as his many dear friends who will forever remember him for his long conversations over coffee, his grand adventures on the water, and his willingness to help whenever anyone was in need. Tom’s love for Disney movies, his great mechanical skills, his tenacious ability to fix things, his maritime knowledge, and his quiet self-discipline and self-determination will be among the memories.
Tom’s dedication to Brown University continues, as he chose to participate in Brown’s Anatomical Gift Program. Private services will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, take a walk on a beach, feed the birds, and share a coffee with a friend.
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