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Thomas O’Donnell
Thomas O’Donnell
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Thomas O’Donnell Obituary
Thomas spent much of his formative years abroad, attending primary and secondary schools in London, England, while his mother worked with the U.S. State Department. He later returned to the United States to complete his education at Severn School in Severna Park, Maryland, before pursuing higher education at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida.
Thomas' career was as diverse as it was adventurous. He began his career with Eastern Airlines and went on to explore unique paths that reflected his wide-ranging interests. In Arizona, he worked at a riding school and owned a mesquite farm. His professional journey took him to remote locations such as Alaska, Mexico, and the Bahamas, where he operated large generators as a teamster for the motion picture industry. His work contributed to renowned films including *Titanic* and the *Pirates of the Caribbean* franchise.
A man of many passions, Thomas had a deep love for the water. He enjoyed boating on Long Island Sound in New York and Alamitos Bay in California. An avid fisherman, he made annual trips to Washington's Olympic Peninsula to fish for steelhead trout and salmon. He also found great joy in collecting vintage cars from the 1960s and 1970s.
As the eldest of nine cousins-all boys-Thomas maintained close ties with his extended family throughout his life. His adventurous spirit, diverse interests, kindness and generosity, and enduring connections left an indelible mark on those who knew him.
May his memory bring comfort to all who shared in his remarkable journey.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
LUCINDA VERGASON
March 8, 2025
Thomas and I met at a Tall Club party, February 14, 1988. We always spoke on that day to celebrate our deep friendship. When I didn't get responses from my card, text,email I searched the internet and found this page. The world has lost a generous and lovely person. XOX
Susan O'DONNELL
February 23, 2025
I am so glad that Thomas and I got to reconnect after more than 30 years. He was a great big brother in every way
THE UPS STORE
January 24, 2025
UPS store here, was always the nicest and most genuine person when he came in and we loved to see him! Will never be forgotten
Stephanie C
January 17, 2025
I was so sorry to hear of Thomas´s passing; I knew him as a friend of a friend, to whom he meant a great deal. Prayers of comfort to those who knew and loved him; may he fly high and journey proud.
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Stephanie C
January 17, 2025
Beautiful tribute - hoping memories of Thomas will bring comfort to his friends and family
Love Ghione
January 17, 2025
I met Thomas at aTall Club gathering in August of 1997 and visited him on the set of Titanic in Mexico shortly after. He was my greatest cheerleader and supporter. We've loved and respected each other for almost 30 years. I'm so thankful I got to visit with him twice in the past couple of months. I miss him terribly. I can't imagine never hearing him teasing me again.
Linda Lee Love
January 17, 2025
Steve Spader
January 9, 2025
Tom & I were 2 of 9 grandsons that were part of the Spader family in Mamaroneck, NY. Tom was 4 yrs older than me but we all played together as kids growing up until Tom went to England with his mom. Tom´s interest in cars wore off on me. He was always sending me cars for sale that he would find on the internet. One them I purchased from him a few years back; 1984 Buick Riviera Convertible. But the one car that tied us together was "The Jeep"! Tom´s mother, Louise, purchased a 1943 WW II Ford Jeep in the early 1960´s while living in London. Tom drove it around London for several years. When Louise returned to the US in the late 60´s, she had the Jeep shipped to NYC where she picked it up & drove it to Mamaroneck. In `67, I purchased it for $1 ( no typo)! I drove it for 9-10 years & then it went back to Tom when he first lived in Tucson. The Jeep would find its way to Seattle & then to CA. In `05, it would come back to me & I did much restoration to it. It now resides in Maine with my niece & her family. I still get to drive it when I visit. I often think of Tom when I drive it. Like Tom, it will always have a special place in my heart. Rest in peace, Tom.
Margaret (Peg) Lynch
January 8, 2025
My heart is broken to read of Tom´s passing. We were part of a small group of 5 or 6, finding each other when we all moved to Tucson in the early 70´s. We were young and had many adventures. Eventually we all dispersed, but Tom and I never lost contact. I found myself back East to my hometown of Saratoga Springs, NY, while Tom eventually made his way back to Tucson. He visited me in Saratoga and I visited him in Tucson. I was so lucky to have Tom as a friend and I don´t know what life will be like without him in it. Safe journey my friend.
David Spader
January 8, 2025
Thanks so much to Julie for remembering Tom's valiant efforts at Ground Zero after the 911 attack. He came to NYC that December to run lighting equipment and spell local responders during the holidays in their 24/7 efforts to search for the remains of the victims. This is but one example of the kindness and caring that typified Tom's life.
In the midst of our grief and chaos in the days after we learned of his unexpected passing, we neglected to add his 911 service to this obit. Thanks again Julie and Philip. It has been a profound loss to all of his friends and family.
Julie and Phillip Chandler Creston, Iowa (Los Alamitos, CA)
January 7, 2025
I'm sorry but I cant seem to edit my previous post. Whatever, we've never been too politically correct lol. Phil and I will always remember our 15 years working in the movie industry with you. Thru Showbiz, Titanic, and a thousand others, especially your hard work and sacrifice at Ground Zero after 9/11. We will miss your laughter and fabulous way at finding the funny and absurd in this World. We will cherish our friendship forever, and are so sorry we didn't get out there to see you again. xoxoxo Jules
On the bloody morning after.........One Tin Soldier rides away....
Julie and Phillip Chandler Creston, Iowa (Los Alamitos, CA)
January 7, 2025
Julie Chandler
January 7, 2025
Our 30 + year friendship will last as long as my memories do. I will miss you dearly every single day. We had so much fun working in Van Nuys, in the movie industry. You will always be my hero for being in the Billy Jack movie. Our hearts are heavy, but take comfort that you are out of pain and we will see you again one day. Love you my dear dear friend, Jules and Poppy
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