Thomas FOX

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.