Thomas P. Neforas

Thomas ''Tom" Neforas went on to join his son, Andrew and meet his Lord and Savior on September 14th, 2024 after a yearlong fight with cancer. Tom, who was born on December 7, 1958, in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, leaves behind his loving wife, and best friend, Rhonda Neforas, his only daughter, Courtney Neforas, sons Devin Neforas and Logan Allinson, along with foster sons John and Bobby.

Born and raised in Fitchburg, Tom graduated and moved to Florida at 17 with an old Ford and a tent determined to find his place in the world. Once settled in Florida, he happened upon The Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale, where he met the love of his life, Rhonda. They then began their photography journey together as a creative duo. His talent, and ability to "think outside the box" was recognized during his time at The Art Institute, where his creativity shined brightly, earning him the much-deserved title of Florida's Photography Student of the Year. 

Tom's natural talent was evident in his profession as a photographer. He had a knack for seeing the world through a unique lens, capturing moments of beauty and significance that others might overlook. He later spent many successful years having had studios in Lawrence, Methuen, Fitchburg, Waltham, Burlington and ultimately on the world-renowned Newbury Street in Boston. There, he was sought after by all the top modeling agencies, specifically for his incredible black and white expertise. From developing film in his own darkroom with Rhonda, to learning the complexities of digital photography, Tom evolved with the field as it advanced. When he became the photographer at Crossroads Church, he gave his gift of capturing the true essence of worship. He was able to beautifully record meaningful experiences and milestones for his community, often free of charge. He then became a mentor for young photographers at Crossroads Community Church, helping them with the confidence to perfect and grow with their craft.

Tom will always be remembered as Dad. He was an incredible father to his three children with Rhonda. Continuously showing up for hockey games, taking late night trips to pick someone up from a concert, playing hooky when a day off was needed and always fulfilling dreams, he was the best dad. Additionally, Tom never hesitated when someone needed him. From offering a place to stay, to attending a school dance, he never said no. As their children grew, Tom and Rhonda began the journey of becoming foster parents. Tom always was a strong reliable role model proving to any kid he encountered that they are worthy of love. Tom was known by his employees as “McDad”. Consistently there to offer advice, a listening ear and always a joke, he made sure that his people were supported and cared for. 

Outside of his work Tom was, in his words, a "Homer" meaning no matter which sport, or what the rankings were, he was rooting for Boston. He took such pride in being a true fan of "Titletown". Another passion of Tom's was animals. From breeding and raising Zebra Finches, digging tunnels for ferrets, trust training with rescue horses and truck driving with a puppy, Tom had a deep connection with his many pets. Tom was also always willing to lend a hand to any animal in need. Whether it was a turtle, squirrel, owl or raven, if it needed help, it was coming home with him. 

Tom's love for Jesus was evident to anyone who knew him. His quiet strength, and unwavering faith were paramount in the healing of many people who were also grieving a lost child. In his own words, “Do not blame God and you know exactly where your kid is. They are not lost.”

Tom is welcomed with open arms in heaven by: his son, Andrew Neforas, his mother and step-father Bette & Gene St. Martin, his father, Peter Neforas, his mother and father in-law Carol & Sam Cameron, his paternal grandmother “Yiayia” Stavroula (Stella) Sgouros, his maternal grandmother Sadie “Gramma” Dunshee. Tom will be greatly missed by his loving sisters and their families: Wanda and Rollie Leger, Dawn and David Wentworth & Gina St. Martin, along with his many loving nieces and nephews, including his God Children Jason Leger & Samantha Wentworth.

In honor of Tom's life, we invite you to share your treasured memories and photographs of him at his service. More importantly, please donate in his name to Nick’s House, where he and Rhonda stayed for many weeks free of charge, during his treatment. 

Services will be held at Crossroads Community Church, 839 Ashby State Rd Fitchburg on Saturday, September 28th. Please join us for visiting hours at 10am followed by a Celebration of Life Service from 11-12. 

In Lieu of Flowers, please donate in Tom's name to Headstrong Foundation-Nick's House Boston. https://headstrong.org/donateboston/

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, Melissa A. McQuaid, Funeral Directors.