Thomas M. Hackett

May 20, 2024 Thomas M. Hackett, of Orange Park, FL died unexpectedly at home. He was predeceased by his parents, LaVerne C. Hackett and Louise (DeLeo) Hackett, sisters Debi Fisher(Pat) and Rose Wood(Tim), and son TC. He is survived by his loving wife of 36 years Judith Rollins Hackett, son Scott Hackett, nephews Michael Fisher and Tim Wood, close cousins Coureen DeLeo Russell (Steve), Dino DeLeo (Monica), Gia DeLeo and many other extended family members.

Born and raised in Rochester, NY he was a graduate of Spencerport High School Class of 1979. Prior to graduation he signed up under the deferred enlistment program to join the Navy. After basic training he was stationed in Hawaii and spent time in Japan and the Philippines. He proudly served his country for six years.

Tom met his wife Judy in 1986 after joining a singles bowling league. They immediately had a connection and married in July, 1987. The following May they welcomed their only son Scott. Tom got involved in coaching Scott’s T-ball and soccer teams as well as serving as his Boy Scout den leader and ultimately becoming the Scout Master.

Tom was extremely proud of and appreciative of his Native American heritage. He would often talk about the Native culture and how important it was to preserve nature and care for the planet. He took pride in displaying his heritage through his several tattoos including a dream catcher, a bear, and a tomahawk.

Tom had many interests but his favorite was cooking. Tom was also enthusiastic about everything related to the planets, space travel and the weather. He enjoyed using a telescope to look at the stars and also enjoyed watching the various rocket launches broadcast on TV and followed the weather during hurricane season very closely. He also had a passion for painting which served to help him unwind from the stresses of daily life.

After a 2007 vacation to Myrtle Beach, SC Tom decided they should move out of New York State to get away from the brutal winters. Tom relocated to South Carolina where he worked for a large aircraft manufacturer. They were separated for three years until Judy was transferred to Charleston in 2009. In 2010 Tom sustained a disabling injury at work which ended his manufacturing career. In 2014 they decided to sell their New York home and move to Florida as their permanent residence.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Saturday, July 27, 2024 at 10:00 AM at the Corey-Kerlin Funeral Home, 940 Cesery Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32211

Here we will share our favorite memories of a man who will be greatly missed.