Thomas Vernon Upton Ph.D.

Thomas Vernon Upton, Ph.D., 77, passed away peacefully at his home on March 9, 2026. Born on April 27, 1948, in Antigo, Wisconsin, Tom lived a life devoted to family, teaching, faith, and the pursuit of wisdom.

Tom spent most of his life in Fairview, Pennsylvania, where he lived, worked, and raised his family. For 39 years he served as a Full Professor at Gannon University, teaching courses including Philosophy of God, Medical Ethics, Introduction to Ethics, and the Ancient Greek language. A passionate scholar, Tom published numerous articles on the works of Aristotle and Plato. He was nationally renowned for his work on Aristotle "Hypothesis." He was deeply devoted to the study of philosophy and spent many hours transcribing ancient Greek texts. One of the highlights of his academic career was serving as a visiting professor for a semester at Princeton University.

Tom also loved athletics and mentoring young people. He spent many years coaching basketball and track and field, encouraging generations of students and athletes. A runner himself, he continued competing in track events well into his 50s.

Curious and creative by nature, Tom enjoyed pursuing many hobbies throughout his life. He loved weaving, tying fishing flies, painting, writing children's stories, reading, singing, golfing, and spending time in deep thought and reflection. He also delighted in sharing his creativity with his family, teaching his daughters the basics of crochet and encouraging curiosity and learning. His love of the outdoors was reflected in his passion for fishing, with one of his favorite places in the world being Moose Lake in Wisconsin.

Above all, Tom loved God and dedicated much of his life to the thoughtful pursuit of philosophy and theology. His life reflected a deep belief that learning, reflection, and compassion were among the greatest gifts a person could give to the world.

Tom cherished his family above all else. He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 50 years, Teresa Upton, Ph.D.; his children Mark Upton (Sarah), Paul Upton (Andrea), and Catherine Johnson (Lane); and his treasured grandchildren Hunter, Clara, Lilly, Kaley, Ben, and Cody. He is also survived by his brothers Richard Upton and Bill Upton.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mildred and Laverne Upton; his brother Robert Upton; and his deeply loved daughter, Marie Upton, who remained forever in his heart.

Tom will be remembered for his wisdom, kindness, intellectual curiosity, and deep love for his family. His legacy lives on in the countless students he mentored, the athletes he coached, and the many lives he touched as a father, husband, teacher, and thinker.

Family will welcome friends on Saturday, March 14th from 11a.m-12pm. at Schellhaas & Sons Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 1600 Stone Mansion Drive, Sewickley, PA 15143 (Franklin Park/Sewickley), where a Funeral Service will be held at 12 noon.