Thomas White

Thomas White
June 29, 1946 - Jan. 12, 2026
Thomas Francis White, a devoted husband, cherished father, and beloved grandfather, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 12th, surrounded by his daughters Brigid and Tara, and in the loving thoughts of his son Ryan.
Born June 29, 1946, in Providence, Rhode Island, to Austin and Donalda White, Tom arrived just minutes after his twin sister Paula-marking the only time in his life he was ever late for anything. Raised as one of five siblings, Tom treasured his lifelong bond with Austin, Kevin, Paula, and Diane.
Affectionately known as "T-Bone," Tom attended La Salle Academy in Providence before continuing his education at St. Anselm College in New Hampshire, a place he often described as formative and deeply meaningful, so much so that he established a scholarship to support future students. During these years his sister Paula introduced him to her roommate, Mary Jane Ring-the great love of his life.
Tom and Mary Jane married in 1969, beginning a beautiful 54-year journey together. Tom joined Union Carbide Corporation (later Dow Chemical), where he built a distinguished 35-year career that took him around the world. In 1976, they settled in Redding, Connecticut, where they raised their three children and were active in their community.
Tom and Mary Jane believed deeply in service to others. They volunteered regularly at the Dorothy Day Soup Kitchen, opened their home to children from war-torn countries, and were active members of Sacred Heart Church.
For more than 20 years Tom, Mary Jane, and their children spent summers at their cottage in Charlestown, Rhode Island- enjoying the beach and evenings grilling together, often joined by friends who stopped by. In retirement, Tom and Mary Jane spent many happy years in Jensen Beach, Florida, surrounded by family and close friends.
Known for his wisdom-whether solicited or not-his insistence on Saturday chores, and his knack for making New Year's resolutions for everyone, Tom's greatest joy was his family. He taught his children to anticipate what comes next and to be ready for what life brought their way. He embraced his role as a grandfather with love and devotion. To his grandchildren, he was a babysitter, pen pal, confidant, storyteller and role model.
Tom is survived by his son Ryan White of San Francisco; his daughters, Brigid Rogers and her husband Brendan, and Tara Ochman and her husband Charles, all of Darien, CT; and his beloved grandchildren Michala, Cristian, Brynn, Tiernan, Keely, Peyton, and Finn. He is also survived by his sister Paula, his brother Austin, and sisters-in-law Susan White, Patty Donaldson, Dorothy Ring, Marlene Ring, and Mary Ring. Tom also thoroughly enjoyed being an uncle to his 20 nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his sister Diane, his brother Kevin, and his beloved wife Mary Jane. Since her passing, Tom longed to be reunited with her, and while his absence brings great sadness, there is comfort in knowing they are together again.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association to help end this disease and support those still facing its challenges.