Thomas Joseph Tait Jr.

Tucson, Arizona – Formerly of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

July 11, 1956 – May 19, 2025

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Thomas Joseph Tait, beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, on Monday, May 19, 2025, in Tucson, Arizona. He was 68 years old.

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Tom was a proud graduate of West Catholic High School, Class of 1974. Shortly after, he answered the call to serve his country, embarking on a 20-year career with the United States Air Force. His service took him across the globe, instilling in him a spirit of resilience, honor, and dedication. Ultimately, he settled in Tucson, Arizona, where he built a home, raised his daughter, and remained for the rest of his days.

Tom was a devoted and loving father to Linda Tait (Brian), and a deeply proud grandfather to Leelah, Jacob, and Jaden, whose joy and laughter were the truest highlights of his life. He was a loving brother to Carol Anne Pasquarello, Francis J. “F-Jay” Smith (Beth), Jeffrey Smith, and predeceased by his brother John Smith, whose memory he carried with deep affection. He was also a beloved uncle to Adam Pasquarello (Frankie), Brianne, Owen, and Ryan Smith.

Tom was a man of quiet strength and deep generosity. He found great joy in life’s simple pleasures—spending time with his family, cooking his favorite meals for those he loved, tending to his garden and house plants, reading mystery thriller novels, watching his favorite shows and cheering on his beloved sports teams Philadelphia Eagles and Phillies. Faith was also a central part of his life. He was devoted to the Catholic Church providing him with strength and purpose. Tom was a man of remarkable character—funny, hard-working, honest, and unafraid to speak his mind. He lived with integrity and heart.

Though he made his home in Tucson Arizona, Tom remained connected to his Southwest Philly roots, returning to enjoy fishing, crabbing, and reconnecting with lifelong friends.

His final day reflected the joy he found in life: it began with Mass, included some of his favorite foods, daily routines and ended watching his grandsons playing baseball on a beautiful Tucson evening. Tom’s generous spirit, fierce love for his family, and unwavering faith touched countless lives. He will be profoundly missed, but his legacy lives on in the love and laughter he leaves behind. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

The funeral will be held at Corpus Christi Catholic Church 300 N Tanque Verde Loop Rd Tucson Az 85748 on Friday June 20th at 10:00am, The morning will begin with Military Honors, followed by a Catholic Mass, and conclude with a Celebration of Life. This intimate gathering is reserved for close family and friends, as we come together to remember a truly cherished soul. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to: Corpus Christi Catholic Church