The family of Thomas Patrick McCaffrey is deeply saddened to announce his passing on September 5, 2024, at the age of 87. Born on March 19, 1937, in Brooklyn, New York, to the late Patrick and Mary McCaffrey, Tom lived a life filled with service, love, and dedication to family and community.
Tom was predeceased by his beloved wife of 42 years, Marilyn Swanson McCaffrey, who passed in 2003, his late brother, John James McCaffrey, and son-in-law, Dave Cherkes. He is survived by his beloved sister, Eileen (Kenny) Christophersen.
Together, Tom and Marilyn raised five children in Oakdale, NY: Kerry (Kevin) Sumrell of Woodbury, CT; Dawn (Michael) Fleming of Southbury, CT; Kristine (and the late Dave) Cherkes of Manorville, NY; Kevin (Nancy) McCaffrey of Far Hills, NJ; and Thomas (Melissa) McCaffrey of Massapequa, NY. Tom was also a devoted grandfather to 15 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren, all of whom he cherished deeply.
A proud son of Brooklyn, Tom grew up surrounded by close friends and spent his youth frequenting Coney Island and Riis Park. He was a lifelong fan of the Brooklyn Dodgers and later, the New York Mets. His love for his country led him to serve in the United States Navy and NYPD, retiring from the 41st Precinct, roles in which he took great pride. Outside of the police force, he continued to give back by umpiring Little League games, refereeing football, and remaining a steadfast presence for his family and neighbors.
An alumnus of St. Francis Preparatory School in Brooklyn and John Jay College in Manhattan, Tom was an avid reader with a special passion for history, particularly Irish history and Celtic music. He loved sharing thoughtful conversations, a good joke, and watching classic movies with family and friends, especially his many grandchildren. Summers spent on the ocean or watching his grandchildren play sports were among his most cherished memories.
Tom never forgot a kindness, and was a loyal friend to all who knew him. He will be profoundly missed by all who knew him, including his newest friends at the Dominican Village Assisted Living Community, where he spent his last days.
A mass of Christian burial will be held Saturday, September 7th at 11AM at St. Rose of Lima Roman Catholic Church in Massapequa, New York. Burial will be private.
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