Thomas Clyde Rose

Thomas Clyde Rose, age 91, passed away peacefully at his home in Salisbury, MD on January 11, 2026 with his wife of 70 years by his side and surrounded by family. He joins his son Tom Jr, and siblings Jacqueline Finlan, James Rose Sr., and Geraldine Hill in heaven. Tom's life was marked by his unwavering dedication to his family, his faith, and his career.
He was born in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania son of Kathryn J. Dougherty and S. Eugene Rose. He grew up in a Catholic family in a close-knit neighborhood along with two brothers and two sisters. He often shared memories of his neighborhood and friends. Tom graduated from Abington High School and is an alum of Spring Garden Institute. He attended the University of Pennsylvania School of Education.
He met the love of his life and lifelong partner Theresa during a dance at Chestnut Hill College. They married on January 21,1956. Shortly after he became a member of the United States Army and served at Fort Bragg for two years. After his honorable discharge, they returned and raised their family in a home he built in Elkins Park, PA and then later moved to Bryn Mawr, PA on the main line in Philadelphia.
Tom will be remembered for his leadership in the automotive industry where he ascended through the ranks. His distinguished career began at McGowen Ford in Ardmore, PA where he received countless national awards. He was an over achiever and dedicated employee, rising to become President of the company over a 25-year career. In 1980 he embarked on an entrepreneurial endeavor to establish his own dealerships in Salisbury, Maryland. As an owner and partner of Good News, Inc., his success continued and the company grew to include many locations and numerous automotive brands. He was known for his commitment to service often personally providing "side of the road" late night assistance to customers in need. In both his career and life, he conquered any challenge he faced.
As a result of many honors in his career Tom and Theresa earned the opportunity to travel the world. They especially enjoyed England, Ireland and Scotland. One of his trips even included driving the Autobahn in a new Audi with his son, Dan.
One of his favorite places was Ocean City, New Jersey. They bought a house there so the family could enjoy every summer together. Many fond memories were made walking the boardwalk, riding the rides and time on the beach. As a Philadelphia native, he was also a dedicated Phillies and Eagles fan and enjoyed the opportunity to celebrate the Eagle's recent Super Bowl wins. He also was an avid NASCAR enthusiast.
Tom volunteered at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church as an usher and was a member of the church council. He exemplified his commitment to practical education for young people by teaching at the Dobbins Vocational High School and serving on the board of the Wicomico County Vocational School.
He will always be remembered for his integrity and as being hardworking, honest and dependable. We will miss his excellent story telling.
In addition to his wife of 70 years, he lives in the hearts of brother Eugene Rose Sr. and his wife Helen; daughter-in-law Rosemary Brittingham and her husband Shawn, children Daniel Rose and wife Pia, Terri Obrecht and husband George and Jeanne Aarsand and husband Kurt; grandchildren Katie Rose Tingle, Erin Rose Byers and husband Andrew, Daniel Rose Jr., Joseph Brittinghman, Will Regler and wife Brianna, Elizabeth Rose Sanders and husband Charlie, and Sophie Rose; great grandchildren Grace, Lily and Mason Tingle and Brooks Byers; and all of his nieces and nephews.
The Roses were supporters of Coastal Hospice, Little Sisters of Jesus and Mary, Saint Frances de Sales School and the Sisters of Saint Joseph. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his name to one of their preferred charities.
A funeral mass will be held at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, 535 Riverside Drive Salisbury, MD at 11am on Wednesday, January 21st with a visitation at 10am prior to the service in the church.
The burial will be on Friday, January 23rd at 11am at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, 3301 W. Cheltenham Avenue, Philadelphia PA 19150.
Arrangements are in the care of Holloway Funeral Home and Flowers Unlimited. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas, please visit our floral store.