Thomas Roy Vance

Thomas Roy Vance passed away peacefully in the early hours on March 4, 2026

Tom was a gentle man who enjoyed reading, nature, long walks and engaging conversations with friends. He always sought to find the good in people. He is remembered for his sense of humor, his generosity, his boundless curiosity and his sparkling blue eyes.

Tom was born the youngest of four sons to John Herald and Lorraine (Ortmeyer) Vance of New Castle, PA. After graduating high school he served four years in the Navy and later attended Penn State University where he received a BA in Liberal Arts. Tom spent time in New York City and became involved in the theater which eventually led him to New England and then to Boston.

When he retired, Tom invested his time in volunteering. He was a guide at the Arnold Arboretum in their Children's Education Program. He worked in the Money Management Program for the Somerville-Cambridge Elder Services and he was the Enrollment Associate at the Waldorf High School of Massachusetts Bay and also served on the Board of Trustees there.

Tom is preceded in death by his brothers David Vance and Robert Vance and his sister-in-law Glenna (John) Vance.

He is survived by his partner of twenty-five years Peter Gabel, his eldest brother John Vance, sisters-in-law Nancy (Robert) Vance and Jane (David) Vance, numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.