Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Terrence TOMALIN Obituary
55, passed away May 19, 2016. He was born Nov. 25, 1960 in New York to Phillip and Lenora Tomalin. Raised in Edison, NJ, he moved to Florida for adventure in 1980. Terry held a bachelor and master degree from the University of South Florida and worked as a journalist for the Tampa Bay Times beginning in 1986, serving as Outdoors Editor, for more than 25 years. He was Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 219, an Explorer's Club fellow, founder of the Tampa Bay Frogman Swim, mentor to James Nelms, member of St. Thomas Episcopal Church, and a lifeguard for life. Terry's most prized role was that of father to Kai, 14 and Nia, 12. He additionally leaves behind his wife of 17 years, Kanika; his mother, Lee; eight siblings, Susan, Tim, Bonnie, Phil, Mandy, Missy, Meredith, and O'Brian, and a host of family, friends and readers - all devoted and appreciative of the adventure he brought to their lives. Terry's life will be celebrated and his memory honored at a sunset ceremony and paddle out, in the tradition of watermen around the world, at 7 pm Friday on Fort DeSoto Beach, East Beach, Shelter 14. The community he loved is invited.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Terrence TOMALIN
Johnny Barab
September 9, 2023
I met Terry in his freshman year at American University...a fellow roommate and terrific guy! Fun to hangout with and loved Jimmy Buffet and Lynard Skynard music while drinking a brewskies. I am sooo sad hearing about his passing...it was way too soon! "Peacock"...you are in my prayers every night. God bless ya bro! -John Barab/Cape May NJ
nori cruz
May 25, 2019
I still think about Terry and the last time I saw him. He was so proud of his family. he showed me photos of them. i was so happy that he had found so much love. He truly deserved that. He was a great person.
Teresa Williams-Brown
May 26, 2016
Our Scout Pack/Troop 295 met Terry when he called and said he will gladly assist is in a fundraiser so the boys could attend summer camp. Thanks to Terry we raised enough money for 8 boys to go to camp this year. Plus we also love the stories he told. Our Troop/Pack 295 is better because of Terry.
May 26, 2016
My husband and I met Terry when we all worked at the St. Petersburg Times. He was always pleasant and fun to talk to about his columns. We send our caring and love to his family. God bless this wonderful man. Leslie and Mike.
Pamela Leavy
May 25, 2016
I met Terry when I worked for Pinellas County government. He was a great journalist and great guy. He enjoyed regaling me with stories of visiting his sister Susan on her movie sets- White Castle and Sweethearts Dance. My best thoughts to his family- he will be so missed. Pamela Leavy, Paris
Joseph Yost
May 24, 2016
Dear Kanika, Kai, Nia and the whole Tomalin Family, Guess what I am listening to now side 2! I love this cassette, and the memories it brings. 19 June 1999 and now, 24 May 2016. Time We are all (in different ways) blessed. Enough said. Be well and (as best you can) find strength in the support of all those who are feeling Terry's loss. There are many, and I am one of them.
Melbourne Florida
May 24, 2016
Terry was a friend I met while working at Helpline on the Tampa USF campus. He was a great friend, full of life, humor, and love. He wrote for the school newspaper as himself and T.A.Mahoney. He was never afraid to stir things up if need be! I am very shocked and saddened at his passing. My heart goes out to his family and many, many people who loved him. The very last time I saw him, a few years ago,he showed me pictures of his beautiful children. He wanted me to meet them. I'm so sorry that I never got the chance. I'm heartbroken, as I know so many are over the loss of this great man. Love, Nori Sue Cruz
Showing 1 - 7 of 7 results
Make a Donation
in Terrence TOMALIN's name
Memorial Events
for Terrence TOMALIN
How to support Terrence's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Terrence TOMALIN's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
