Thomas Francis Merigan Jr.

Thomas Francis Merigan, Jr., 77 of Marshfield, formerly of Chicopee, MA and East Boston, MA passed away surrounded by his loving family and dear friends on February 18, 2024. Beloved husband of 54 years to Christine Merigan (Winiarz). Loving Father of Thomas Francis Merigan, III (Carolyn) of Hingham, MA; Devoted Papa to Lindsay and Thomas Francis Merigan, IV. Beloved brother of the late Maureen Merigan of Belmont, MA, Patricia (Merigan) Noonan of Belmont, MA and Margaret (Merigan) Lightfoot of Cambridge, MA. Uncle to C. Brendan Noonan, III (Kim) of Belmont, MA, Mary Elizabeth (Noonan) Goulding (Michael) of Belmont, MA and Allison (Noonan) MacGilvray of Stoneham, MA and many great nieces and nephews. Son of the late Thomas Francis Merigan and Mary (Sullivan) Merigan of East Boston, MA.

Tom was born October 24, 1946 in East Boston, MA. He never forgot where he came from and enjoyed visits back to “The Homeland” for years after moving to Chicopee in 1962. Rexhame Beach in Marshfield was always home for Tom and his whole family after they built their first cottage in 1945. Summers were filled with fond memories, cookouts and bonfires, especially on the 3rd of July with his cousins and extended family. Shortly after moving to Chicopee, he met his lifelong sweetheart, Chrissy, at Chicopee High School and they began a journey together that could only be described as Living the Dream. Their life was filled with loving adventures in the campgrounds of Western Mass, the mountains of New Hampshire and the shores of Delray Beach, Florida. The light of Tom’s eye was his son, Tommy. Together they enjoyed scout camping trips, boating, BC Tailgates and 35 Red Sox Opening Days. He was thrilled to become a grandfather to Lindsay and Tommy and cherished each moment that he had with them on the beach, on the boat or at Disney.

Tom had a distinguished career, hallmarked by service that he was especially proud of. Tom first served his country after being drafted into the Army during the Vietnam War. He fought valiantly in the infantry on the front lines and later trained villagers to defend themselves. He later joined the Army National Guard and Army Reserves where he rose to the rank of Colonel. He was particularly proud of the work that he did for Selective Service during his military tenure. Tom began his professional career with State Parole as a parole officer, later joining Federal Probation where he retired as a Supervising US Probation Officer overseeing Springfield and Worcester. He wrapped up his career as a Massachusetts Parole Board member. Whether on the battlefield or in the court systems, Tom is remembered for having no fear, always being fair and having a can-do attitude. He was a hero and role model to many. After a career of service to his country and community, Tom and Chrissy retired to Marshfield and became snowbirds to Delray Beach, FL. The fun never stopped, surrounded by cousins and friends, as they embarked on Viking Cruises, Happy Hours and Pizza on the Beach.

Tom faced his battle with pancreatic cancer with the same can-do attitude that he always carried. Through four years of treatments, many of which he lived in great health, he never complained and was grateful for every moment that he had beyond his diagnosis. His positive attitude and determination, coupled with tremendous care led by Dr. David Ryan and his team at Massachusetts General Hospital gave him more time than many have had, and for that our family is eternally grateful.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, February 25, 2024, from 3 pm -6 pm at Richardson-Gaffey Funeral Home, 382 First Parish Road Scituate, MA. A funeral Mass will be held on Monday, February 26, 2024 at 12:30 pm at St. Christine's Parish, 1295 Main St. Rt 3A, Marshfield.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Tom’s memory can be made to Marshfield Veterans Services, 870 Moraine Street, Marshfield, MA 02050