Thomas F. Vanderslice

Thomas F. Vanderslice Sr., beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and proud veteran, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2025, at the age of 93.
He is survived by his children: Tom Jr.(Chris), JoAnn, and Theresa(Bill), from his earlier marriage to Theresa, who passed away in 1996, and Michael and Eric from his marriage to Nancie, who passed in 2010. He was a proud grandfather to Ashley, Alexis(Greg), Billy, Nicholas(Cassie), and Tom III, and a great grandfather to Nicholas Jr., Gregory III, and Leighton.
He is also survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews, and their children-who all got to enjoy the same stories, jokes, and good times during family gatherings that made time with Tom so unforgettable.
Born in the Port Richmond section of Philadelphia on December 11, 1931, Tom was the son of the late Edward and Margaret Vanderslice. He was one of six children and was preceded in death by his siblings George, Eddie, Johnny, Betty, and Margaret.
Tom proudly served his country as a member of the U.S. Army's 101st Airborne Division-the famed "Screaming Eagles"-during the Korean War. His deep pride in America and military service never faded. Whenever he told the story of his Airborne jump training, he'd always throw in his favorite line: "Guess how I got to Korea by boat!" Classic Tom(Dad)-gritty, humble, and always ready with a punchline.
Tom was also a proud member of Philadelphia's Mummers tradition. He played the banjo in the Polish American, Greater Kensington, and Ferko String Bands-marching up Broad Street with pride and rhythm on many New Year's Days. And whenever he had the chance, he'd dance the jitterbug and polka with that unmistakable energy and charm.
In 1991, Tom moved to Croydon, PA, with Nancie, Michael, and Eric. It became the home where he spent the rest of his life-sitting by the pool, relaxing in his robe, and enjoying time with his family. His backyard was a place filled with laughter, stories, and love.
He was a man of strong convictions and simple joys. Tom loved three things above all else: his country, his family, and his robe. He could often be found watching the Phillies, eating clams and spaghetti, or sharing one of his legendary stories-all in said robe. He also loved old Westerns, listening to Frank Sinatra, and never missed a chance to identify a passing car by its year, make, and model with pinpoint accuracy.
We will gather to honor Tom's life at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Croydon, PA on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 10:00 AM, followed by a Funeral Mass. A military send off will take place at Resurrection Cemetery at 12:15 PM, honoring his service and love for his country.
He lived life on his own terms-comfortably, proudly, and always surrounded by love. In true Tom fashion, he wanted everyone attending to come casual and comfortable-no monkey suits allowed. If you've got red, white, and blue, even better.