Thomas M. "Tom" Townsend

Westerly, R.I. - Thomas "Tom" M. Townsend, 73, of Westerly, R.I., passed away after a brief illness Sunday, Feb. 16, 2025. Born in North Kingstown, he was the son of the late Benjamin and Cecilia Townsend.

Tom is survived by his three sons, Jon (Christine) Townsend of North Stonington, Todd (Ashley) Townsend of San Diego, Calif., and Ryan Townsend of Fort Meyers, Fla.; as well as his sister Starr Kadlick; brother Kevin Townsend; and three grandchildren, Tessa, Leon and Hank. He was predeceased by his loving wife Donna Holliday Townsend; sister Linda; and brother Stephen.

Tom retired after over 40 years at Frito Lay to work his dream job of working at Weekapaug CC for the last 10 years, as well as a former golf coach for The Prout School. He was an avid golfer who was constantly practicing his swing, no matter where he was. He was a staple at every single game his sons played. From Rec League soccer, basketball and baseball in the boys' early years to varsity basketball and soccer at Prout and even soccer at Nichols College.

Always known as "Donna Holliday's husband" followed by either "Towny's" or "Todd's dad," he wouldn't have had it any other way. He was a loving "Pops" to his grandchildren and had no problems teaching them his most politically incorrect jokes and sayings, like he did with his sons, and loved every second of it with his infectious laugh! During his later years, if he wasn't golfing or working in his yard, you could find him with his feet in the sand or going for walks at Seaside Beach Club during the summer months.

Visiting hours will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 6, at Gaffney-Dolan Funeral Home, 59 Spruce Street, Westerly. Funeral Service and burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dementia Society of America, www.dementiasociety.org. For online condolences, please visit www.gaffneydolanfuneralhome.com.