Thomas “Tom” Estey, revered publicist, mentor, and devoted friend, passed away on January 3, 2026, at the age of 61. He died peacefully from an unexpected cardiac event, surrounded by family and friends.
Tom leaves behind a legacy of integrity, passion, and unwavering commitment to the artists and talent he championed throughout a distinguished 30-year career in the entertainment industry. He was the owner and guiding force of Tom Estey Publicity & Promotion, known for its dedication to authentic talent and credible storytelling.
His career began in Boston as a young writer for a local newspaper. A pivotal interview with actress and singer Gloria Loring, whose single “Friends & Lovers” became a number one hit, sparked Tom’s lifelong passion for publicity and promotion. Within a month, he moved to Los Angeles to work under legendary publicist Nanci Ryder at BWR Public Relations, where he honed his craft for eight years before launching his own firm.
Over three decades, Tom represented an extraordinary roster of clients, including Richard Simmons, Matthew Perry, Anita Baker, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Annie Lennox, and many others.
Tom was widely admired for his warmth, humor, and infectious personality. He brought that same generosity of spirit and care to every relationship and was as passionate about the people he worked with as the work itself. His influence was felt not just in headlines and placements, but in the careers, he helped shape and the confidence he helped instill.
Born in Brockton, Massachusetts, he was the son of Ann and Otis Estey. Tom earned a Master’s degree in Communication from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in 1986. He is survived by his beloved son, Tyler, his brothers, Ed and Stephen, and his nephew, Joe.
Funeral services are private.
Tom leaves behind a legacy of integrity, passion, and unwavering commitment to the artists and talent he championed throughout a distinguished 30-year career in the entertainment industry. He was the owner and guiding force of Tom Estey Publicity & Promotion, known for its dedication to authentic talent and credible storytelling.
His career began in Boston as a young writer for a local newspaper. A pivotal interview with actress and singer Gloria Loring, whose single “Friends & Lovers” became a number one hit, sparked Tom’s lifelong passion for publicity and promotion. Within a month, he moved to Los Angeles to work under legendary publicist Nanci Ryder at BWR Public Relations, where he honed his craft for eight years before launching his own firm.
Over three decades, Tom represented an extraordinary roster of clients, including Richard Simmons, Matthew Perry, Anita Baker, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Annie Lennox, and many others.
Tom was widely admired for his warmth, humor, and infectious personality. He brought that same generosity of spirit and care to every relationship and was as passionate about the people he worked with as the work itself. His influence was felt not just in headlines and placements, but in the careers, he helped shape and the confidence he helped instill.
Born in Brockton, Massachusetts, he was the son of Ann and Otis Estey. Tom earned a Master’s degree in Communication from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in 1986. He is survived by his beloved son, Tyler, his brothers, Ed and Stephen, and his nephew, Joe.
Funeral services are private.
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