Thomas Owen Lindley Jr.

Thomas Owen Lindley Jr., age 83, died October 31, 2026. Born April 4, 1943, he grew up in Clovis, New Mexico, and was known by family and close friends as Tex. A resident of Castle Rock, Colorado, Tom will be remembered with deep respect and enduring affection by all who knew him.

Tom served in the United States Navy from 1961 to 1967 aboard the USS ESSEX (CVS-9) as a Fire Control Technician. His years of service reflected steady dedication and pride in doing the job well, and he was awarded the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal and a Good Conduct Award.

On July 9, 1966, Tom married Louise Drap in New York, beginning a marriage that would span 46 years. They met at a bar while he was in the Navy—love at first sight—and together built a full and generous family life. They had four children and adopted six children, raising their family in Rhode Island. Summers often meant camping together, and the years were marked by family road trips to religious shrines—simple, meaningful traditions shaped by commitment, perseverance, and care for one another.

Tom’s interests were as wide-ranging as they were heartfelt. He loved the New York Yankees, fishing, and listening to all kinds of music—especially classic rock. He found joy in nature and the living world around him, with a particular appreciation for birds, plants, and wolves. He also delighted in spicy food, and his sense of wonder extended upward to the moon and astronomy. Through it all, his humor had a way of lightening a room and drawing people closer, even in ordinary moments.

For many years, Tom and Louise served as foster parents, offering steadiness and support to those who needed it most. He attended and volunteered at Saint Thomas Moore Church in Rhode Island and most recently attended Saint Francis of Assisi in Castle Rock, and he also volunteered with AWANAS. His devotion showed not only in what he believed, but in how consistently he showed up for others.

Tom is preceded in death by his wife, Louise. He is survived by his ten children: Matthew Lindley and his wife Karleen, Samantha Pezza and her husband Michael, Rebecca Izzo and her husband Frank, Andrew Lindley and his wife Jacqueline, Benjamin, Zachary, Cody, Peter, Kiara, and Thomas D. He is also survived by fourteen grandchildren.

Special thanks to his Red Hawk townhome neighbors that offered him friendship and support. In addition, thanks to Meals on Wheels for their care and compassion.

In honor of Tom's final wishes, a private celebration will be planned for a later time.