Thomas A Golay

Thomas Golay, 81, beloved Son, Spouse, Father, Father-in-law and Friend, was called to his eternal resting place on January 28, 2025. He entered this world on February 9, 1943, in Lumberton, NC, born to James and Juliette Golay. He is survived by his spouse Deborah Golay; daughter Tracy Garbers (Mike Garbers); son Patrick Golay (Amy Golay); and son Nicholas Dukes.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, February 10th at 11:00 am at Downtown Baptist Orlando church, 120 E Pine St., Orlando, FL 32801.

Tom grew up in a military family and enjoyed traveling and living where his father's service took them, including Germany, Japan and the Philippines. His family moved to Florida in the late 1950s, where he graduated from Winter Park High School and attended Orlando Junior College.

Tom joined the Orlando Fire Department in 1962. At 6'4", he was almost too tall to meet the height requirement of the department at that time. He spent 27 years with the department, ascending in rank to Lieutenant. He also worked at the Fire Academy teaching ropes, repelling and ladders.

Upon retirement, Tom worked with Jim Turrisi, a good friend and fellow retired firefighter, at Snodgrass Oil Company. Following this, he worked as a Fire Inspector for Orange County for several years.

Tom never forgot about his past in the Orlando Fire Department and was a regular attendee of the monthly Retired Orlando Firefighters luncheon, often picking up anyone who needed a ride to the lunch. He also regularly volunteered at the Orlando Fire Museum, where he would regale visitors of stories of the Orlando Fire Department.

Tom enjoyed giving back to his community and found purpose volunteering for his neighborhood watch and neighborhood association, growing neighbor participation exponentially. He also joined Seniors Versus Crime under the leadership of Orlando Commissioner Tony Ortiz, where he taught senior citizens about technology and avoiding scams.

Tom was baptized by Pastor Jim Henry in 1980, and through the years found his calling in spreading the word of God. Along with his wife, he worshiped at Downtown Baptist Orlando, where he served as a Deacon and was a member of the church's security team. He loved being asked to help around the church, so he frequently took on other responsibilities large or small. He was committed to ministering to the members of his flock, including driving them to church and going to their homes to visit with them. He belonged to several Christian men's groups and enjoyed the camaraderie and fellowship these friends brought.