Thomas Richard Seery

Obituary of Thomas Richard Seery

Thomas Richard Seery, 81, passed away on Monday, December 15, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Tom was born on January 11, 1944 to John and Ida Seery in Jersey City, NJ. He grew up in Closter, New Jersey and graduated from Northern Valley High School at Demarest in 1962, where he first laid eyes on his future wife, Barbara Dietlein, in history class. Tom remained life-long friends with a handful of his classmates and teammates. He was a talented athlete who went on to play collegiate football. Tom and Barbara's romance moved quickly and they married on January 8, 1966 despite attending rival colleges. After graduating Moravian, Tom built a successful 40 year career in sales while he and Barbara grew their family to three children.

Tom shared a special bond with each of his children. Whether it was time spent cheering on the Giants, taking a day trip to the ocean, or teaching how to repair something; he was that guy. Likewise, he always knew when to challenge his children and when to encourage them. His greatest passion was sports, of any kind. It didn't matter how busy his work was or the business trips he took, he never missed watching his kids' games or passing up an opportunity to coach their team. Tom's favorite hobby became fitness after retiring from C&D Battery. He loved Gibson's Gym and always looked forward to socializing with his workout buddies. He'd also make appearances at his grandkid's sporting events. Another place you could usually find him was on his riding mower meticulously caring for his lawn. Make no mistake though, the only place he would be everyday at 4:00 was on the back patio, cigar in one hand and glass of wine in the other, admiring his property.

Throughout his life, Tom was the embodiment of his Irish heritage. He was a "foodie" at heart who loved a large spirited gathering. He was known for his great sense of humor, quick wit and the uncanny ability to make light of a situation. Not to forget his unmatched gift for storytelling.

A loving husband and father, Tom prioritized family, faith, and friends. He lived his faith through his uncompromising character. Tom possessed a quiet strength always standing by what he believed in. His loyalty was unwavering and he had the patience of a saint.

Tom is survived by his high school sweetheart wife of 59 years, Barbara Dietlien Seery. He is survived by his children, Keith Seery and his fiancé, Katie Ngo; his daughters, Donna Seijas and her husband, Jim, and Colleen Huguenin and her husband, John; his cherished grandchildren, Kyle and his wife, Carly, Zachary, Helena, William, Riley, Mikey, and Jackson; his great grandson, Niko; and his niece Patti Seery.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents, John and Ida Seery; his brother, John Seery and his sister-in-law, Felicia; and his nephew, Jack.

A memorial gathering of family and friends will be held on Friday, December 26, 2025, from 5:30pm until 7:30pm at Martin Funeral Home, 1761 Route 31, Clinton, NJ 08809. Tom will be laid to rest privately at Tappan Cemetery.