Thomas W. Leavitt

Dear friends After many years i returned to ithaca this summer and visited the gardens if the A.Dickson White house where i worked with Tom before moving to the H F Johnson Museum., unfortunately the latter was closed much to my regret for construction. Still many fond recollections were invoked as Tom was a major influence in my life. May his memory be lasting.

I woke up this morning thinking about Tom. In this contentious world Tom's combination of funny subtle irony, expert leadership, and constant kindness is much needed and he, who supplied this for us all, is much missed. e--

Michele, Those of us who worked with Tom certainly remember his grace, his love of art and all that it meant to him; and he taught us so much. Tom hired me after living in Israel for a short period of time and gave me some of the best years of my career not only thru his knowledge but through his humble manner.. something so rare in the art world. He was an inspiration to many a junior colleague; and so many of us remember sailing with him on Cayuga lake his second love. My condolences to all...

Michele, when I read this I thought of you and your beloved Tom.

God saw you getting tired and a cure was not to be, so he put his arms around you and whispered come with me. With tearful eyes I watched you closely and saw you pass gently away. Although I loved you dearly, I could not make you stay. A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest. God broke my heart to prove to me .... He only takes the very best.

Michele, we send you our deepest sympathy on the loss of your lifelong companion and mate. Not a kinder, more thoughtful, considerate or helpful gentleman than Tom Leavitt has affected so many lives, some of our closest friends. We will miss him and hold him dearly in our hearts.

We in the museum world were so lucky to have his civil and gentle leadership and many of us were doubly fortunate to have his thoughtful friendship. We will all miss him.

Tom was one of the gracious and kind human beings we ever met. He'll be remembered fondly by the many, many people whose hearts he touched. Our thoughts are with you, Zach, Michele and Collin.