Thomas Patrick Sayers Sr.

Thomas Patrick Sayers passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at the age of 98, after a long and truly incredible life. Tom was known as the "Quiet Man" from Ireland-a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, cousin, and brother. He was the foundation of our family, generously sharing generations of wisdom, love, and tradition with everyone he touched.

Tom was born in Lack, Annnascaul, County Kerry, Ireland, one of six children born to James and Mary (Kennedy) Sayers. Following his dreams, he immigrated to the United States, where he would often say he became the luckiest man alive when he met his beloved wife, Margaret, at an Irish dance in New Rochelle, New York.

Tom and Margaret made their home in New Rochelle, where they raised four wonderful children: Mary McCready (predeceased), Thomas Sayers Jr., Rosemarie Hanley, and Elizabeth Sayers. Their love story spanned seven decades, and they proudly celebrated their 70th Wedding Anniversary on September 10, 2025.

As their family grew, Tom and Margaret moved to Rye, New York, in 1972, choosing it for its closeness to the Long Island Sound and the open fields that reminded them of home. To them, Rye truly felt like a little Ireland.

Nothing brought Tom greater pride than his family, who were the heart of his life. He held special affection for his son-in-law, Scott Hanley, and his daughter-in-law, Edith Sayers. He is lovingly remembered by his grandchildren: Caitlin Sayers and her husband, Samuel Muralles; Diana Sayers; Matthew Grillo; Kelsey Peterson and her husband, Michael Peterson; Lindsey Hanley and her husband, Christopher Finelli; and Scott Hanley Jr. His legacy of love continues through his cherished great-grandchildren, Connor Peterson and Iris Muralles, and extends to the many cousins, nieces, and nephews who were blessed to share in his life.

Tom treasured family visits to his home, especially Sunday afternoons when the Fordham radio station played softly in the background, filling the house with his beloved Irish music. Feet would tap along to the rhythm until the news came on-or an Irish football match-when a respectful silence fell over the room. Go Kerry!

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Thursday February 12, 2026 at 11 AM at the Church of the Resurrection in Rye, NY. Interment to follow at Greenwood Union Cemetery.