Obituary of H. Thomas Dill

H. Thomas Dill
January 15, 2025

H. Thomas "Tom" Dill, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2025, at the age of 94. A long-time resident of Gladstone since 1976 and a devoted communicant of St. Brigid's Church, Tom’s extraordinary life was defined by love, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to family and community.

Born in Woodbourne, NY, to Harry and Cecilia Dill, Tom grew up with a strong sense of faith, integrity, and compassion—values that would shape the remarkable man he became. Tom never met a stranger and was the epitome of a true gentleman. With a genuine and giving heart, he brought warmth and positivity to everyone he encountered.

Tom graduated from Clarkson University with a degree in Chemistry.  He went on to have a long and successful career in sales and management.

Tom’s family was his greatest treasure and enduring legacy. He is survived by his cherished wife of 64 years, Joan. Together, they built a family rooted in love, faith, and laughter. He will be deeply missed by his daughter Mary Ellen Peters (Joe) of Basking Ridge, his son Steven Dill (Randi) of Gladstone, and his son-in-law John Cook of Hingham, MA.

Tom was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren: Tommy Peters (Kaitlyn), Grace Gearhart (Craig), Emily Rankowitz (Pete), Caroline Cook, Alison Cook, Aiden Dill, and Shannon Dill. His joy grew with the arrival of three great-grandchildren: Brendan, Norah, and Cecilia Peters. He is also survived by his dear sister Susan Welch (Gil), his brother Bob Dill (Kileh), and many cherished nieces and nephews.

He is reunited in eternal peace with his beloved daughter Barbara Cook and his brother and sister-in-law Bern and Roe Dill.

An avid sportsman, Tom was as active in life as he was compassionate. From skiing the black diamonds of Utah to the white diamonds of Gladstone he skied up through his 94th birthday!  He was a passionate and knowledgeable sports fan, as well.  Tom and Joan could be found on the sidelines of all of their grandchildren’s sporting events and were considered “lucky charms” for Ridge, Bernards, Seton Hall Prep and Delbarton teams.

Tom was a pillar of the Peapack-Gladstone community, giving selflessly to those in need. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in his honor to the Peapack-Gladstone Fire Department or the Peapack-Gladstone First Aid Squad, organizations close to his heart.

Tom’s passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his legacy of love, kindness, and generosity will live on in all who knew him. He will forever be remembered as a devoted family man, a treasured friend, and a true gentleman.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 21, 2025 from 5:00-8:00 pm at Gallaway and Crane Funeral Home, 101 S. Finley Avenue, Basking Ridge, NJ. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Brigid's Church, 129 Main Street, Peapack, NJ on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at 11:00 am.

Rest in peace, Pop—husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. You will be deeply missed and forever loved.