Thomas FOX Obituary

FOX, Thomas Patrick 70, passed away peacefully with his family by his side, on Friday July 30, 2021. Preceded in death by his loving wife, Bonita Fox; and his parents, Fred J. and Rose Fox of Tampa. He is survived by his two daughters, Ashly (Thomas) and Madison, his brothers, Fred (Dolly) and Robert (Liana) and his sisters Mary Anne Obusek (Joseph) and Pamela Escobar (Richard), and many nieces and nephews. A lifelong resident of Tampa, Tom graduated from Jesuit High School in 1968 where he was a star athlete. His many athletic achievements included the Palio's Brothers' Iron Man Award and four year letterman award. Tom was a graduate of the University of South Florida and South Texas College of Law. Following Law School, he returned to Tampa where he practiced law for 40 years. Tom was a fierce advocate for the voiceless. He was a former member of The Florida Bar, The Hillsborough County Bar, and The Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. As a man of service, Tom was proud to be a founding member and past president of the Rough Riders. He was a past member of Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla (Gunner's Guild), The Freemason's and The Egypt Temple Shrine (Director's Staff). As a pilot, a story teller, and a comedian, Tom reveled in the memories of his travels, flying his Piper Cherokee throughout Mexico and the Caribbean. Tom could always make you laugh. When he wasn't in the air, he could be found holding his fishing pole under the Clearwater Pass or belting out his favorite Karaoke tunes. The family will be forever grateful to All the staff at the James A. Haley V.A. Hospital and The Tampa Fisher House for their compassionate care and support. Due to Covid-19, there will be a private memorial mass held in Tom's memory at Jesuit High School and a celebration of life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, gifts in Tom's memory may be made to Fisher House Tampa, 1300 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Tampa, FL 33612 or to Jesuit High School, 4701 N. Himes Ave., Tampa, FL 33614 or jesuittampa.org/donate to provide the gift of education for students in need.

Published by Tampa Bay Times from Aug. 8 to Aug. 9, 2021.
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Memories and Condolences
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6 Entries

My sincere condolences to Tom's family. so sad to see my classmates go. I'll always remember Tom as being the first person I met in the beginning of first grade. Proud to call him a friend and track teammate.

A.J. Menendez

August 15, 2021

Tom is one of those few people you meet in your lifetime that is a true character. We had many adventures together from flying to the the Keyes to Boca Grande ,Rough Riders and Shriners all of them good times. And man could he tell a story most of them hilarious, all of them true. I will sorely miss you my friend keep them laughing up there as I know you will

Steven Carter

Friend

August 10, 2021

I liked Tom He was a great Guy. My Prayers go out to the Family...Liz and Albert

Albert Brown

August 9, 2021

My deepest sympathy to the Fox Family for the loss of your loved one, Thomas Patrick, and pray God gives you comfort, peace and strength.

Jo H.

August 9, 2021

My condolences to the Fox family. I was fortunate to call Tom my friend for more than 40 years. I pray that his daughters and family find peace in their memories. Your suffering has ended my friend. Sing with the angels.

Julie Harris Herndon

Friend

August 9, 2021

Indeed you were a star athlete at Jesuit; it was an honor to run with you. Also knowing the joy of flight, I commend your choice of aircraft. You were a good man Tom; we will miss you.

Neil C McMullen

School

August 8, 2021

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