Thomas Howard Rolfes

Thomas Howard Rolfes died peacefully on May 1, 2025 at age 76, in Tallahassee, Florida. Tom was truly one of a kind. Everyone who knew him—whether as Tommy, Tom-Boy, or T-Bone—has a hilarious story to tell. From his high school days, when he held the unofficial record for driving backward around Triplets to the time he surprised his teenage niece by rolling her window down as they entered the car wash, Tom brought joy and laughter wherever he went. He had countless adventures flying his beloved Cessna 152, boating on Florida’s many waterways, walking over hot coals at the Farm, dancing on tables, and teaching his children and grandchildren how to use a screwdriver and hammer. Tom was always the life of the party and the most vibrant presence in any room.

He graduated from St. Petersburg High School in 1966 and went on to study at the College of Santa Fe and Florida State University, where he excelled in molecular biology. His college mentor described him as “a brilliant mind.”

Tom’s passion for woodworking began at Hickory Hill Farm in Quincy, Florida, where he built a cottage for his first wife, Deborah Thomas, and their daughter, Kristen. That talent and passion grew into a career. Alongside his friend and partner Mel Thomas, he co-founded Pelican Woodworks, creating custom cabinetry, millwork, and furniture for churches, state supreme court offices, the governor’s mansion and personal home, boutique hotels, and fortunate homeowners.

In 1976, Tom met Sharon, who remained the great love of his life until his final breath. Together, they raised two children, Lyle and Marni. Over the next five decades, Tom and Sharon built a life full of love, adventure, and community—traveling near and far, and hosting countless celebrations, holidays, and backyard gatherings for family and friends. Tom was rarely alone and always ready with a joke, song, or dance move to bring joy to any occasion.

Tom is predeceased by his mother Lucille, father Harry, and brothers Harry and John. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Sharon; his children Kristen (John) Hall, Lyle (Cristina) Rolfes, and Marni (Danny) Dewes; his grandchildren, Jack Hall, Reed Hall, Elliott Dewes, and a granddaughter Dewes arriving in July; his sisters Carol (John) Tyrrell and Ann Harbachuk; his brother Jimmy (Jackie) Rolfes; and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. We will celebrate the life and times of Tom in the fall. Details to follow.