Thomas Franklin Fishburn

Thomas F. Fishburn, 89, of Portsmouth, Rhode Island, died at home with his daughters by his side, on February 24, 2025. He was the husband of the late Alice (Ramsey) Fishburn.

Born in Sunbury, PA on April 30, 1935, He was the son of the late Russell K. and Anne (Strouse) Fishburn. Thomas grew up in central Pennsylvania, and graduated from Penn State with a degree in Physics with a focus on Electrical Engineering. During his time at Penn State, he met Alice, and they were married soon after graduation. Shortly after that, Thomas began his long career with the US Navy. He served in active duty for 3 years, almost all of it was at sea, including assignments on the USS Hugh Purvis (DD709). He continued his service to the Navy with Reserve duty for another 20+ years, retiring as Commander USNR. During the height of his career, Thomas was working in Newport for NUSC and NUWC as a Program Manager and Engineer. He continued his education regularly, and completed advanced studies at MIT, Harvard, and the Defense Systems Management College. His career concluded with several years as a consultant to the Navy with KPMG.

Outside of work, Thomas was very involved in the First Presbyterian Church in Newport, the Newport Rod and Gun Club, and was a longtime fan of the America's Cup races and its history. Through the years, he and his family traveled to Australia, Hawaii, and San Diego to watch Cup races.

He will be missed by his Friday lunch crew at Big Dawg's and his family is grateful for the care provided by Brenda and the team at VNS Home and Hospice, especially Matt, Sarah, and Amy.

Thomas is survived by three children, Lori Kosicki of Portsmouth, John Fishburn of Port Charlotte, FL, and Patricia MacDonald of Portsmouth, and five grandchildren, Brian Kosicki of Austin, TX, Rachel Kosicki of Portsmouth, Jeffrey Fishburn of Venice, FL, Lindsay MacDonald of Gorham, ME, and Ashley MacDonald of Los Angeles, CA; and one brother, William Fishburn and his wife Carolyn, of State College, PA.

Visiting hours will be held on Monday, March 03, 2025 from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM at Memorial Funeral Home, 375 Broadway, Newport, RI. Burial services will be private.