Stony Brook, New York
Fire Officer and Engineer
Captain Thomas Moody loved to give people "the elbow." He would be telling a joke, kidding someone, and if they didn't get it right away, "he would give you the elbow in the ribs," said his wife, Maureen. "He loved to tease."
Captain Moody also had a certain way with names. His daughter Deirdre's first-grade teacher, Mrs. Fear, became Mrs. Afraid. Mr. McDonald became Mr. Arby's. And when he was growing up in Brentwood, on Long Island, his younger sister, Lorraine, became "the secret helper.'' "Whenever he wanted to get my sister to do something, he'd call her his secret helper, and he would con her into doing these little favors for him," recalled Frank Moody, an older brother.
But for all his teasing, and (literal) ribbing, Captain Moody, 45, was quiet at heart. An 18-year veteran of the Fire Department, he was working to be transferred to the hazardous materials team, so he could make full use of his degree in chemical engineering; he started his career as a chemical engineer. He still got consulting work as an engineer, but his adventurous side was most fulfilled working in the Fire Department. "He was in probie school when we met," said Mrs. Moody. "He was so excited about it, so content."
Tommy was one of my best friends through undergrad years at UB. I remember fondly so many wonderful times with Tommy - classes together, studying, drinking, playing frisbee. He had a contagious laugh and a welcoming way about him. I lost a great friend that day.
Jim Walter
September 11, 2021 | Friend
I still wear your remembrance bracelet and think of your sacrifice daily. May God bless all who gave their lives on 9/11 and I continue to pray for your family.
Carol MacGregor
September 14, 2020 | Afton, NY
My thoughts are with your family today. Even 19 years later, you live on through all of us.
Rest easy, Cpt. Moody
anon
September 11, 2020 | Acquaintance
16 years have gone. Thank you so much for your service. Prayers to your family. You will never be forgotten.
Vance Robinson, Captain
September 12, 2017 | Amarillo, TX
Hey "Cousin Tommy",
Every year I tell my students about you and how we used to laugh our socks off while playing video games at JT's Saloon in Hollywood! I don't tell them how I lost my car there one night, however. TMI
I think about you often and will never forget you! You will forever be a part of me and my memories!
Love,
Sue
PS can't wait to see you again in heaven!
September 12, 2017
Always remembering Captain Tom Moody FDNY and wonderful family. Your dedication to family, friends, and our country Is cherished - thank you, Captain Tom ❤
Chrustine Neilson
September 12, 2017 | Merritt Island, FL
September 11, 2017
Dear Tom,
As you already know, I was unable to attend any memorial services due to hurricane Irma. I am sure you had a hand in keeping us safe. Thank you.
To all my family members, colleagues, students, dear friends and friends I've yet to meet, thank you for thoughtful comments and remembrances. Rest assured they are comforting and appreciated.
Let us never forget the victims of this tragedy and those who had to carry on without...
September 11, 2017
Dear Capt. Moody,
Your brother Mike was my substitute teacher for most of my childhood. It was inspiring to see how he still loves his brother and how you still live on in him. I pray for your wife and children and family, and I thank you for paying the ultimate price for your country.
Chenna Jeanett Teresa
March 20, 2016 | Indian Harbour Beach, FL
To the family of Capt. Tom C. Moody, I have been in the fire service for over 40 years. After the 9/11 tragedy many of us at the fire station bought the bracelets honoring the brave FDNY firemen who were lost that day. I have a bracelet with Capt. Tom C Moody name on it. I have worn it hundreds of times and feel like he is a part of my life. I have read so much about him that I'm sure he was a great man, father and husband. I feel honored to wear his name.
Vance Robinson
September 13, 2015 | Amarillo, TX