Thomas M. Gately

1955 - 2020

Thomas M. Gately obituary, 1955-2020, Norfolk, VA

Thomas M. Gately

1955 - 2020

BORN

1955

DIED

2020

Thomas Gately Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Feb. 11, 2020.
Tom Gately of Lockport, NY was born on April 6, 1955 and passed away on February 6, 2020. He graduated from Canisius College in Buffalo, NY and moved to Virginia Beach to open a medical examination company that grew to become the largest in the state with six locations.



Tom was smart and inquisitive, always looking for new skills to master. He was an avid softball player and sports fan, a guitarist, a weekend mechanic to his '73 corvette, and a voracious reader who became an author. Later in life Tom discovered a talent for commercial painting, and became sought after by many homeowners for his strong work ethic, and meticulous attention to detail.

Most of all, Tom was a devoted and loving father, grandfather, brother, and son. He was well liked and respected by many as a true "stand-up" guy.

Tom was predeceased by his mother Dorothy A. Gately and his sister Diane G. Turney. Left to cherish his memory are his daughter Ashlee Gately Maldonado (Mario), father Richard B. Gately, brothers Tim Gately, Dan Gately (Joni), Dave Gately (Jill), brother in law Cary Turney, two beautiful granddaughters Claire and Callie, his former wife Leetsa G. Nottiingham (Dick), several nieces, nephews, and cousins, and his long-time companion Andrea DeLoatch.

The family would like to express its deep appreciation to his closest friends John DeRyder and Mike Lupia. John showed great compassion, loyalty, and support for Tom during the final weeks of his life.

A celebration of life will occur at a later date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, Tom's family encourages donations to The American Cancer Society.

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

Sign Thomas Gately's Guest Book

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January 19, 2025

Kat posted to the memorial.

February 13, 2020

Paul Peele posted to the memorial.

February 11, 2020

Beth Mellas posted to the memorial.

6 Entries

Kat

January 19, 2025

One of the best friends I ever had. I think of him often.

Paul Peele

February 13, 2020

So sorry to hear about Tom's passing. I used him and his business for years as my paramedical examiner and he earned the respect from all of the agents who entrusted him to get our exams done on a timely basis. He was extremely skilled in drawing blood and when I had to have my own drawn, he was finished before I even knew I had been stuck. He was a fun loving guy and will be sorely missed. I offer my prayers and condolences to his family during these difficult days.

Beth Mellas

February 11, 2020

Tom had a great smile, and, whenever I saw him at family gatherings he was always smiling. What a wonderful, warm person. He will be missed.

Sam

February 11, 2020

Tom was a diverse and dynamic man.
Sharing in your sorrow.
Love and prayers to his family.

Jeanie

February 11, 2020

Tom was such a wonderful man. He and Leetsa hired me to work for them as a receptionist when I had no work experience. Tom was patient and taught me so many things. He let.me use him as a pin cushion when he taught me how to draw blood. Not only was he my boss but he was a friend. I remember our coed softball team and how much fun we had not only on the field but when we would all meet at a sports bar after for eats and drinks. Rest in peace Tom my heart goes out to your family and friends may they all know how much of an impact you had on people and the respect you earned from us.

Kathy Norton-Ratcliffe

February 11, 2020

You will be dearly missed rest easy Tom and drive that vet like no ones watching ❤

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Sign Thomas Gately's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

January 19, 2025

Kat posted to the memorial.

February 13, 2020

Paul Peele posted to the memorial.

February 11, 2020

Beth Mellas posted to the memorial.