Thomas J. Lowndes

Thomas John Lowndes, known affectionately as Tom, passed away on Sunday, July 28, 2024, Hopehealth Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence, Rhode Island, at the age of 93. Born on Christmas Day in 1930 in Brooklyn, New York, Tom lived a rich and full life marked by dedication to his family and his career, as well as service to his country.
Tom served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War as a Communications Specialist, where he was honorably discharged. His time in the military instilled in him a deep sense of duty and discipline that he carried throughout his life.
Following his military service, Tom embarked on a successful career in the international shipping industry. He began as a shipbroker trainee at Winchester Ship Brokerage, later moving to Van Ommeren Shipping. His expertise and dedication led him to the role of Vice President at Joseph E. Cahill and Company. Tom's entrepreneurial spirit shone through when he founded his own company Unisphere Chartering Corp., and he concluded his career as a senior shipbroker at Skaarup Shipping.
Outside of his professional life, Tom was an avid golfer and a long-standing member of the Westchester Country Club; he enjoyed playing golf into his 90's. His love for the game was only matched by the love he had for his family.
Tom was a cherished figure, loved deeply by his family and friends for his warmth and generosity. He is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Jean Lowndes; his daughter, Cynthia A. O'Brien and husband, David O'Brien of Exeter RI; his son, Thomas D. Lowndes and wife, Jill Lowndes of Isle of Palms, SC; his sister, Josephine Sevely of New York, New York and his grandchildren, Jonathan Griffee, Alex Griffee, Travis Lowndes, Dylan Lowndes, Danielle Kedioglou and Erin Durand.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Rose Lowndes, and his sister, Margret "Mickey" Giangoia.
A catholic prayer service will be held on Monday, August 5, 2024 at 12 p.m., noon, in the Fagan-Quinn Funeral Home, 825 Boston Neck Road, North Kingstown, followed by a burial with full military honors at their RI Vetereans' Memorial Cemetery, Exeter. Visting hours will be prior from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in honor of Tom's memory can be made to the American Heart Association, 1 State Street, Suite 200, Providence, RI 02908. Alternatively, those wishing to honor Tom's memory are encouraged to engage in acts of kindness and charity in their own communities, reflecting his generous spirit.