Thomas D'Arcy

CAPE MAY COURTHOUSE -Thomas James D'Arcy, 85, died on Dec. 15.

He had a storied career as a New York public relations man. Between 1965 and 1995, he worked for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, publicizing the launch of PATH and Newark airport as it became international. He later spent many years traveling the world to promote tourism to New York. For most of his career, he worked in the World Trade Center in lower Manhattan. He was among those who endured the first underground bombing of the towers and had retired by 2001. Still, he lost colleagues, friends and a family member in the terrorist attack.

He was born in Brooklyn in 1929 and grew up in Queens and Manhasset on Long Island. He graduated from De LaSalle High School, then entered military service, serving as an MP at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., and went on to serve in the Army Reserve. He received the National Defense Service Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. He later graduated from and found lifelong friends at Manhattan College in the Bronx.

His career began as a speechwriter for the New York State Comptroller, Arthur Levitt, Sr. in Albany, where he met his future wife, Joan (McDonald). After marrying in 1964, they moved to New York City. Within the next eight years, they had five daughters, moved five times and settled in Ridgewood, where they remained for more than three decades. He was a member Our Lady of Mt. Carmel parish, the Knights of Columbus and active in the many local groups, such as the Ridgewood High School Parent Jamboree. He was also a member of the West Point Parents Association. He and his wife became avid golfers and deepened many friendships while on the links. In 2009, they moved to Cape May Courthouse. After he retired in 1995, his wife developed Alzheimer's disease. For the next several years, he devoted himself to her, as both a caregiver and champion. Earlier this year, they celebrated their 50th anniversary.

He is survived by his wife, their five daughters and their families including seven grandchildren.

Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.