Thomas V. Linehan Jr.

Thomas V. Linehan Jr.

Thomas Linehan Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Oct. 17, 2001.
Stealing Quiet Moments
If anyone had asked Thomas V. Linehan what his idea of a perfect vacation was, he would have said that it was a week spent at home in Montville.

"He was a quiet person," Carol Linehan said of her husband of almost 10 years. "We were basically homebodies. He was very private."

A senior vice president at Marsh & McLennan, Mr. Linehan enjoyed working on his yard and playing with the couple's two children, Melissa, 7, and Tommy, 4. They would frolic in the treehouse in the backyard, he would make picnics for them and he would take them on walks. "My daughter always knew how to get a laugh out of him," Mrs. Linehan said.

Mr. Linehan, 39, was not without friends. His memorial service last Saturday in Montville was attended by hundreds of friends, from his high school days in Vernon, his days at the Assumption College in Massachusetts, and by friends from jobs. There were even people there from the men's softball team he belonged to in Vernon, the Mud Chickens.

The Linehans met on a blind date, arranged by Mrs. Linehan's brother-in-law, Dennis Taormina, who worked with Mr. Linehan and was also on the 98th floor of 1 World Trade when it was attacked.

When they met, "it was like love at first sight," Mrs. Linehan said. "We met in June, were engaged by October, and married in February. We had almost 10 wonderful years together."

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Thomas Linehan's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

September 9, 2022

Sherry Feitel posted to the memorial.

September 27, 2020

Mary Ellen Pastor posted to the memorial.

September 30, 2018

Declan Duggan posted to the memorial.

Sherry Feitel

September 9, 2022

Carol, I wish we had had the pleasure of meeting Tom! But we have had the pleasure of having Little Tommy and yourself in our life for the last couple of years. Our hearts go out to you and your family and we think of Tom frequently. From the comments I read about him he seemed like a lovely, caring husband and father. So sorry for your loss.

Mary Ellen Pastor

September 27, 2020

Tommy was my youngest first cousin. I have never forgotten him - he was so loved. For many years I attended a 9.11 memorial evening service at Assumption College. (there was a place there where they had created a memorial for him). I spoke his name. Christmas at Nana's - Little Tommy. Never forgotten. Mary Ellen Fennell Pastor

Declan Duggan

September 30, 2018

I am a second cousin of Thomas, residing in Cork. We recently received a visit from another second cousin of us both, From Philadelphia. They visited the original family home of the Linehans in Ballybeg, Buttevant, County Cork. This is approx 4 miles from where I live with my wife Eileen and Son Jimmy. My mother Mary is age 96 and thankfully fully on top of senses and with a very good interest in her heritage. Her mother was Linehan. We would love to receive any member of the family at any time. We recommend doing so sooner rather than later. My mother will receive a cheque from the President when she reaches 100 and might be hard to track down after that! Our thoughts are with you. We would love to connect with you. Declan Duggan. Email me privately on [email protected]

Willam Cokeley

May 18, 2016

From to the families paperboy & friend .Sorry tom, you & Paul C . Were always the best of poeple along with your family president and past. The world to you all.

Wjc

Dennis Walker

September 25, 2015

Dear Carol,

My family and I will never forget you or Tom, and we will continue to keep you and your family in our prayers.

Sincerely,

Dennis Walker
Your former Tenant in your New Jersey Townhouse

John Ryan

September 11, 2015

I was a young Teacher at VTHS I remember Tommy's great smile. Playing basketball in gym early mornings before school. Prayers with your family! I know you are playing hoops in Heaven!

Tj K

September 11, 2014

We never forget.....

Sheri Torelli

September 11, 2014

I chose your husband's name as our University here in California paid tribute to each of the 2,799 victims of 9/11. We planted flags and prayed over those lost that day. I was honored to chose Thomas Linehan. I will continue to pray for your family. We have not forgotten.

Diana Linehan-Irwin

May 18, 2014

Thomas and family.. I don't know if were related but I saw your name and wanted you to know that you are all in our family's thoughts and prayers

S J. Friscia III

May 14, 2014

In Memory
With Honor & Respect.

Jeff DeGuido

September 11, 2013

One more year has past, I just got of the with Pat we talked of you and her Love . I feel as if I know you through sis . Always in our thought's .. R.I.P. Friend

Bonnie Poignant

September 13, 2012

I grew up in Highland Lakes and knew Tommy well. He was a gifted athlete and scholar but most importantly, he was a really nice human being who never let his popularity get to his head. I went to visit the 9/11 memorial yesterday and each year, when the names are read I listen for Tommy's and say a little prayer. He was a wonderful, genuine person

Jennifer Linehan

September 12, 2011

Ten years and the wounds are fresher than ever! May God bless your family and know your extended family prays for strength, peace and some sort of harmony. Remember, God does not give us more than we can handle. And you are never going to be alone in this journey of healing in life.

YESTERDAY IS HISTORY
TOMORROW IS A MYSTERY
TODAY IS THE PRESENT
THAT IS WHY IT IS CALLED A GIFT

September 11, 2011

You will never be forgotten. RIP....

Alan Mooney

December 11, 2010

Well Thomas you just had andother birthday and we miss you as much as ever. We love you brother!

Jeff DeGuido

September 10, 2010

My Prayer are with and your wife children and Family. My Aunt is your brother, and though we never met , I feel i know you .
In the light of Love and Peace
jeff deguido

Rosa Gutierrez

September 12, 2009

I just wanted you to know you were remembered today.

I worked with Tom at Reliance. One of the most striking things about Tom was his unassuming nature. Tom always had time to say hello and ask you how you were doing.

God bless your family as they go through another year without you.

Aloysius Linehan

February 25, 2009

I am so sorry for your family and that we have lost another linehan and we have also have had a thomas linehan pass away.I hope things work out for you all.Be strong

Tom Landergan

September 12, 2008

I was one of Tom's many friends at Assumption College. One of my best memories is taking a road trip with Chuck Thompson to go to N.J. in the summer of 1983 to visit him.

Tom had a great sense of humor. All I can remember is that we were constantly joking and goofing around. I feel very lucky to have known him.

Not only was he a great person and fun to be with, he was also extremely smart. I knew he would be successful. The fact that he was a Senior Vice President at a major corporation at such a young age shows the potential he had.

I pray for his wife and family for what must be a difficult time of year.

Regards,

Tom Landergan
(Assumption College, Class of 1984}

carla basante

September 11, 2008

To the Linehan family,
My prayers and deepest sympathy are with you. I knew Tom from school. He was the star Basketball player.
Everyone loved him. He was my first big crush. I remember going up to highland lakes with everyone and Tom was always the funniest and sweetest guy there. later on as adults we were in contact with each other. It was so nice. I saw him and his best Jersey buddy Paul Corbut together again, Still the same two goof balls. We went our seperate ways . Years later I heard he was really, really happy. a proud husband and father. I was thrilled for him he deserved nothing less. He loved his family so much and to add his own additions must have meant everything to him. when I heard the news, I was with my 1 year old son, my heart broke. even though we were no longer in touch, it doesn't seem real.
I think of him often especially when i see teenage boys who play basketball as natural as walking. I wanted his family to know how Tom touched so many lives. He is one of the people in my life that made me laugh the hardest. no one has come close.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Carla Basante

Scott Feenan

April 29, 2008

Scott & Cathy Feenan, Assumption 1984 (not '80)

Scott Feenan

April 29, 2008

Tom & family,

As classmates of Tom at Assumption we will always remember his friendly,warm personality at college - just a great guy. Such a sad loss for everyone left behind. We visited NYC Ground Zero memorial/ museum last weekend with our children 16, 14, 11. We touched your name on the wall and said a prayer for your family. Best wishes to your wife and children. Scott & Cathy Feenan, Assumption '80

Joann Stora

December 9, 2007

Remembering you on your birthday, Tom.

Doug Abraham

December 9, 2007

Happy Birthday!!!

Michael Linahan

October 24, 2007

Michael Houston Linahan-I was doing research on the name Linahan,Linehan,and sadly came across the Linehan on this list.This is late but it sadens my heart to loose another Linahan.Take care and all the best to you and yours.Michael H.Linahan

P Tabbernor

December 10, 2006

In remembrance....

Kristine

November 2, 2006

As I stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.

Frank Wolfe

September 11, 2006

Thank you for making sure that the little fat kid next door wasn't the last kid to be picked when we played ball. Thank you for so many of my childhood memories.

Dave Van Houten

September 11, 2006

My sympathies to the entire Linehan family.

roland montreuil

May 16, 2006

i am very proud to have a tommy mann golf club its a driver and to keep it i8n good shape i added a graphite bubble shaft condoleance to his family for then death of a great man roland montreuil

A Londregan

March 19, 2006

To the family of Tom Linehan,

Just came across the name of your brother and wanted to send my condolences. I didn't know him, but I too, had a brother named Tom LEnAhan who passed away at the age of 34. I try to imagine that his are the arms that will carry me up to heaven when the time comes. God bless and know that you and your family are in my prayers.

Joann Stora

December 9, 2004

Remembering you, Tom, on your birthday. Peace, serenity and healing to those who love you.

Joann Stora

September 11, 2004

Tom, I remember.

Joann Stora

September 11, 2003

To the Linehan family. Today, as every day, but especially today, my thoughts and prayers are with you. I wear a Mercy B.A.N.D. with Tom's name. I recently had to replace the original band as it was about to break in half. Would a member of Tom's family like to have the original band? I would be happy to mail it to you. I want to be sure it receives the respect it deserves, and not be put away in a drawer some where to be forgotten. I am proud to wear Tom's name and never forget to include his family in my prayers every day. God bless you and bring you comfort.



Joann Stora

[email protected]

Tom Western

September 25, 2002

My most heart-felt condolences go out to the entire Linehan family. I've often said to my wife since that tragic day just how lucky we are. Although I work in New York City, I was off that day. I was one of the few people that thought I knew no one lost on 9/11. I was stunned to find out about 2 months ago that I was sadly mistaking. When driving through Highland Lakes, I met an old neighbor and he told me of the loss of Tommy. I had spent quite a bit of time with Pat & Mary as well as their family during the summers of the 60's & 70's. I can't imagine the pain and suffering you all must have endured and I'm sure continue to endure. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Ellen Parish

May 23, 2002

I am Tommy's cousin - his dad and my mother were brother and sister and I clearly remember well the joy that resulted from Tommy's birth. As kids we spent alot of time with our Linehan relatives in Highland Lakes but as we grew older we grew apart - all of us leading our own busy lives. Somehow we always kept tract through our parents and as they began to age we had occassion to get to know each other again - as adults. The last time I saw Tom was at his Mom's about two years ago where I met his beautiful daughter Melissa. She has her mothers dark good looks but there is not doubt that she is a Linehan as well. My heart breaks for Aunt Irene, Pat,Joan,Mary,their families and Carl. It seems to me that each passing day I find it harder and harder to listen to tales of 9/11 - the reverse of what you might expect so I can only imagine what it must be like for you. All the Harnetts love each of you and pray for your loss each day.

February 24, 2002

DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS BEAUTIFUL YOUNG MAN THOMAS V.LINEHAN JR. AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01.MAY JESUS AND ST.THOMAS GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN.AMEN.

Joan Linehan-Prontiker

February 18, 2002

I'm Tommy's other sister, Joanie. So much has been said of what Tommy was like as an adult, I wanted to share some things about Tommy the kid. I remember the night he was born. I was only 6 but it was pretty exciting. When Nana got the call..."It's a boy!" Wow, after four girls you can guess it was pretty special. Trisha slid across the wooden floor and got a splinter the size of her foot which Popa had to painstakenly remove. Mary was not too thrilled since she was no longer the baby, but we were all happy. We weren't sure why only that it wasn't another GIRL! And boy were we surprised when he got home. You just had to look at him to see he was special (remember we were all girls up to this point)! And so it went, life with a baby brother. We knew Tommy was very special pretty early on, he had hernia surgery when he was about 2 or 3 and even got to come home from the hospital in a paddy wagon (Daddy was a cop) because of a major snow storm. He was a good baby, smiling always with those blue eyes. As he started to grow up it was obvious he was going to be athletic. Tommy was good at whatever sport he tried. Even if he didn't know what he was doing he looked good doing it. Tommy was special. He had the greatest smile and the whitest teeth. He was smart too. He was always in the excelerated classes even in grammar school. At the Lake during the summers, we had a porch that was made of stones. He would patiently for hours at a time, make gravel roadways all over that porch for his cars. We should have know he would be an accountant then, always orderly. If you wanted to make him mad you'd mess that up. But we didn't want to do that to him very often simply because he was a good kid, a good brother. Tommy would let us dress him up all the time. He loved wearing girls clothing and makeup simply because it would make us laugh. My father made us stop that because he was getting worried about him. Tommy made and kept alot of friends. He liked just about everybody, even those kids the others didn't like. And when he became your friend, he was very loyal and would go out of his way to help you if you needed him. He was a good friend to have. He was special. Tommy inherited the Linehan body too, tall and lean. I hated that since I have the Fennell body. He had the greatest legs...any women would envy them! The only thing he inherited that I thank God I didn't was the hair thing. Tommy, much to his chagrin, started to loose his hair early in life. In fact, he was only 39 and was bald! He hated that and always talked about getting a transplant or a toupee. But then he would laugh about it. He didn't need it, he was a good looking man. Tommy did so well in school and everything else he did, he was captain of his sports teams, he was picked to be an intern, he was selected to work in a Big 10 Accouting firm before he even graduated, he was special. Luck had very little to do with him too, he was just special and things came to him simply because he worked hard and was good at whatever he did. He was smart and athletic, what more could you want! He was definitely a leader. He excelled in basketball and baseball and lost a scholarship due to a couple of injuries he received while playing, but he still went to a good college and got an excellent education. He graduated Magna Cum Laude and while most things came easily to him, he never took any of it for granted nor did he gloat in his successes. Tommy even took up the sport my father loved so much and had been playing for his entire life, GOLF. He became an excellent golfer in such a short time that my father got jealous (not really), and was so proud of him. Tommy was special, he loved his family above everything else. He loved his friends, some of whom have been in his life since they were very young, and most of all they loved him alot. Although Tommy and I did not always see eye-to-eye, I love him very much and miss him terribly. I'm not sure why I grieve so much for him, maybe because I wasn't as close as I could have been. I do know part of it is because I never told him how much I loved him before this happened. He will never know now, but Tommy was very special to me. He was the youngest in our family, he was the special little boy finally born into our family of all girls. Although I always knew he was special it was confirmed at his Memorial Mass. Over 1000 people attended. They gave up their Saturday to give Tommy a fantastic sendoff. Tommy was not a cop or a fireman, he was just an accountant so those that came to his Mass, came for him or his family not for the city or the brotherhood. Thank you to all who came and to all those who at some point were his friends, and those who are his friends. Thank you for being part of his life. People who didn't know Tommy but were affected by him indirectly came, his many co-workers and friends came from far and near, his family came...all showing really what a great guy he was...We all love you Tommy and I hope that you, Daddy and Anne are up there having a great time together at the biggest 19th hole of all. And, know that all of us down here think of you all the time and miss you so very much. Schlater Tom, I miss you alot and love you more, your sister, Joanie

Patricia DiStefano

January 15, 2002

I have been sitting here for the past 30 minutes thinking about what it is I want to say about my bother Tommy. The truth is, I don't know what to say. I have been struggling with his death since Sept. 11th. Talking about Tommy was a great source of pride for me. Never did I think that this would be a forum in which I would be telling anyone about my baby brother. I was at work when the 9/11 tragedy took place. For me it was a double whammy because not only did I lose my baby, my only brother, but I also work for American Airlines. I have been affected on both fronts. Losing Tommy was not a reality I ever thought I would have to handle. This is the most difficult task I have ever been handed and I'm not quite sure I'm doing a good job of handling it ! I'm at work now typing this because that is the only place that I can find any respite from my sorrow. I am the oldest now that Annie is gone and I am 10 years older than Tommy. But, being the tomboy of the family until Tommy came along, I always felt a very special bond with my brother. I felt there was a closeness there that only he and I shared. Living in Texas put distance between us, but I was always secure in the fact that he was there. That security no longer exists and I will miss him with all my heart and soul until the day I die. He was a wonderful little brother who had grown up and become a wonderful man. I loved his laugh, his laid back style and the fact that he would call me Pat instead of Trisha because he thought it sounded so funny. He will be missed by many and remembered by more. Thank you to all who have sent your prayers and good wishes to our family. Please continue to remember Tommy and his family in your thoughts and in your prayers. On Tom's behalf let me say that we are truly grateful to, and for, you all !

marion cory

January 12, 2002

On the date of September 11 a tragic event occured. So many innocent people were killed. Even thought the loss of theses people is devistating at times and brings great sadness and sorrow it also brings love. The memories of Thomas V Linehan will live on forever..... a hero forever!

Marion Cory of montana

Mary Mooney

January 7, 2002

Tommy Linehan was my only brother. Today was the first day that I could actually sit and read all of the wonderful notes that have been sent to this website that CNN has set up. Tommy and I were the youngest children out of a family of five. Not only was Tom the youngest but he was the only boy. Even though I was 2 years older than Tommy I never looked at him as the younger brother. He always seemed to be the older brother I never had. He was always there for me - no matter what. We were babies together, toddlers together, we were teenagers together (God Bless you Mom!) and we became adults together. I could never in a million years describe how PROFOUND the sorrow is that has blanketed our family. We can't console one another - we can't even console ourselves. I try each and every day to be the strong one for my family. After all Tommy ever did for me that's the least I can do for him. On 9/11 I realized it was my turn to step up to the plate for him. So I guess my message for any family or friends that read this is .......From this day on when you think of my brother Thomas let just the thought of him bring a twinkle to your eye instead of tears. From this day on when you think of him let your heart swell with love and warmth instead of heartbreak. Anyone who knew Tom can only know that is how he would want you to remember him. I will love him dearly and miss him sorely until I take my last breath. A day will never go by that I won't shed at least one tear for him. But I also will not let a day go by without having a belly laugh over something he did or said. Tommy was truly a heroe to me for so many more reasons than just going to work that day. On behalf of my family, thank you so much to all of our extended family members, friends, and especially all the strangers who have written tributes for him. Your thoughts and prayers are much appreciated and heartfelt.



MARY T. MOONEY

BUDD LAKE, NEW JERSEY

Sharon Perry

January 6, 2002

I didn't know Tom, but we went to school together in Vernon, I was class of 1982. We may have passed in the hallway and I'm very saddened to know that he has passed.

God Bless. Though no words can take away the pain, he was part of Vernon's family and many others and the world will miss him. So very sorry. God be with you.

Thomas Fennell

January 1, 2002

I am Tommy's first cousin. I would again like to extend my condolences to Tommy's wife Carol. Although in recent years we were not close I carry tremendous memories of many a Chistmas night together. I will never forget them. He was little Tommy with a grin bigger then his face. His white shirt and tie were something to see after about three hours. Meeting his friends and wife at the memorial was a beautiful experience as I see what a great man he had become. He was a go to guy loved by family and friends. I am confident that his spirit will live through others. His love for his family and his dedication to friends will prove to be an example for all of us. God bless Tommy, his wife Carol and children, Aunt Irene, Trica, Joanie, Mary. With all my heart, Tommy Fennell

Teresa Jahn

December 25, 2001

We are deeply sorry for your loss of Thomas. May his life and love live on in his children and all who love him. Our hearts cry with you.

America Cries

We see your sorrow-

and our hearts cry....

We can not erase your pain

but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-

-the American people-

are beside you.

We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,

the strength that gives you courage,

and the words to lighten your spirits.

And when we are left speechless

may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts

to ease your sorrow.

May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-

-the American people-

face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn

Dixon, IL

Beth Clark

December 20, 2001

I wear the mercy band bearing Thomas'name every day in rememberance of him and his family. God bless.

Joann Stora

December 19, 2001

Every day I wear a Mercy B.A.N.D with Tom's name to honor his memory and as a reminder to pray for his family. God bless.

KARLA & AL HORACEK

December 14, 2001

Our family has come to know the Linehan family through our church, Coast Hills Community Church in Aliso Viejo, CA. We want to send our words of condolence to the family and let them know that they are in our daily thoughts and prayers this Christmas season and into the New Year. We pray that the Lord would put His loving arms around Mrs. Linehan, Melissa and Tommy. May you feel His peace and healing grace at this time. We are accross the United States, but we feel the losses very deeply here and just want the family to know that there are people throughout this country thinking and praying for them.

Sincerely,

Al and Karla Horacek and Family

David Altana

October 31, 2001

Though I only knew Tom a few years, he left a lasting impression on me as a wonderful kind-hearted guy. May God watch over his wife and children

Showing 1 - 49 of 49 results

Make a Donation
in Thomas Linehan's name

How to support Thomas's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Thomas Linehan's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sponsored

Sign Thomas Linehan's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

September 9, 2022

Sherry Feitel posted to the memorial.

September 27, 2020

Mary Ellen Pastor posted to the memorial.

September 30, 2018

Declan Duggan posted to the memorial.