Thomas Dearing

1949 - 2017

Dearing, Thomas
1949 - 2017
Thomas Ralph Dearing, age 68, transitioned to his after-life adventure on October 13, 2017, after his year-long fight with cancer. He leaves his wife, Laralyn Sasaki Dearing; his "son", John Rivera and his "daughter", Sheila Jensen, all of Columbus; as well as his brother, Gary Dearing and sisters-in-law, Mary (Ronnie) Dearing and Janie (Donnie) Dearing, all of Jackson, Ohio; and many cousins, including Mike (Bea) Lowry of Columbus, and many "favorite" nieces and nephews. Born on August 26, 1949, Tom was the youngest of five sons born to Wilma White Dearing and Ralph Dearing of Jackson, who both predecease him, as do his brothers Ronnie, Donnie and Larry. Tom graduated from Jackson High School and attended the Ohio State University. He was the ultimate TRUE storyteller, using life moments to teach others, and was known for his generosity, fairness and integrity – and cooking for friends. With Bruce Wiland, Tom launched Events Video Production, later E-Video, and was an outspoken promoter of the Weinland Park neighborhood. A proud gay activist and human rights advocate, Tom daily stood up for those being treated unfairly or who needed encouragement to reach their potential. After marrying Laralyn and moving to the Eastgate neighborhood, Tom became Chief Communications Officer of Productive Entertainment Inc. and enjoyed mentoring entrepreneurs. He loved his 19 years with Laralyn, his ohana, dog Lulu and their "Paradise" home. Tom was grateful for the excellent care he received from the Columbus VA and for the remarkable comfort care provided by Zusman Hospice. At Tom's request, he is being cremated and a celebration of life will be held at a later date. See Shaw-Davis Funeral Home at http://www.shaw-davis.com/notices/Thomas-Dearing for full obituary and condolences. In Tom's honor, NOTICE those around you who need a smile, a helping hand or a meal – and ACT on what you see. Consider giving time or treasure to groups supporting our neighbors – Mid-Ohio Foodbank, American Red Cross Apheresis Donation and Church for All People on Parsons Ave – and those that bring us joy like the Aldus Society, CATCO and Columbus Museum of Art.