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BORN
1935
DIED
2018
Thomas Ayres Obituary
Bridgewater, VA - Thomas Ayres, of Bridgewater, Virginia passed peacefully away on January 2, 2018. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Phyllis Busco Ayres, his daughters Colleen Bagarello (husband Tom, deceased), Karen Bodoh (husband Keith), his sons Thomas (wife Brook), Matthew (wife Cindy), 10 grandchildren and 5 great, grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his oldest daughter Ellen Louk.
Tom was born in South River, NJ in 1935. He attended Virginia Military Institute before enlisting in the Marines. He earned his undergraduate degree at Elon College and later his Master's degree from Rutgers University.
Tom moved his family to Seaside Park in 1968. He was a teacher and guidance counselor in the Toms River and Central Regional school districts for 30 years. An avid volunteer, he was on the First Aid Squad and worked summers as a police dispatcher. In 1981, he was elected to town council and in 1983 he became the 18th mayor of Seaside Park.
Tom was passionate about fishing and spent many days at Island Beach State Park as well as in local tackle shops chatting with friends. He enjoyed working with kids and coached Little League as well as Pop Warner Football for years.
In 1992 Tom and his wife Phyllis retired to Virginia. He kept in regular touch with his many friends and family up until the time of his death.
The family will hold a memorial service later this year to celebrate his life. Those wishing to make a donation in his honor can do so directly to St Jude Children's Research Hospital.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Ayres
4 Entries
January 15, 2018
Condolences to the family
from John Cardarelli a good friend of Tom and
Colleen Bagalero
January 14, 2018
Steve and I were so sad to read about Tom's passing. I worked very closely with Tom when he was a guidance counselor at Central Regional Middle School as Assistant Principal. Tom always cared about both his students and his colleagues. He was genuinely kind to all.
Steve and I are in Florida for the winter...but perhaps the memorial services will be later in the year. Our sincerest condolences to all of Tom's family.
JoAnn and Steve Susko
Judy B.
January 14, 2018
I'm sorry for the loss of your Loved One. May God comfort you and your Family during this difficult time. Isa. 41:1O,13.
Vin Bickler
January 14, 2018
Tom was a great Central Regional staff member. He helped many kids over the years.
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