Thomas Francis Jennings

Born on September 15, 1942, in Watertown, Massachusetts, Tom was the eldest son of Thomas F. Jennings and Catherine Campbell. He was raised with strong values of hard work, education, faith, and integrity-principles that guided him throughout his life.

Tom proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, where he was stationed at the Washington, D.C. Navy Yard. Following his active-duty service, he continued his commitment in the Naval Reserves for several years.

He pursued his academic ambitions with dedication, earning his undergraduate degree from Boston College before completing his graduate studies at Brown University. He went on to build a distinguished career as an economist and devoted civil servant with the United States International Trade Commission. Known for his intellect, professionalism, and commitment to public service, he earned the respect of colleagues throughout his career. In the late 1970s, Tom spent several years in Geneva, Switzerland, working with the United Nations-an experience that reflected both his expertise and his global perspective.

For nearly 54 years, Tom was the devoted husband of Carole Pfiester. Together, they built a life grounded in love, partnership, and family. During their marriage, they raised three children-Marianne, Mark, and Patrick-who were a constant source of pride and joy.

A man of deep and abiding faith, Tom was an active member of Blessed Sacrament Parish in Washington, D.C. for many years. His faith guided his life and inspired him to serve others through volunteer work and mentorship. He found great meaning in giving his time and care to those around him.

Tom is remembered for his calm demeanor, thoughtful nature, and sense of humor. He valued time spent with his family above all else, especially the time spent with his grandchildren, whom he adored. He took great joy in being present in their lives and creating cherished memories with them.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Carole; his children, Marianne (Jay Requarth) of Dayton OH, Mark (Sissi Eichmueller) of Bethesda MD, and Patrick (Alexandra Kourides) of Port Chester, NY; his 8 grandchildren: Jack, Devin, and Madeline Requarth; and Thomas, Elizabeth, Kathleen, Mary, and Winnifred Jennings; his sister Cathy Lynch, and his brother, Rich Jennings, and multiple nieces, nephews, cousins and godchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas F. Jennings and Catherine Campbell.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 5949 Western Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20015. Visitation will take place at the church beginning at 10:00 AM, immediately prior to the Mass which begins at 11:00 AM.

Tom was loved deeply by so many people. He was often described simply as "the best" He was decent, warm, welcoming, and genuinely caring. He had a remarkable gift for making others feel seen and valued, often leaning in, asking thoughtful questions, and giving his full attention in every conversation. He had a sincere curiosity about people and a desire to understand them, which led to deep and meaningful connections throughout his life. Because of this, he leaves behind not only a devoted family, but also a wide circle of friends who loved him dearly.

Tom will be profoundly missed and forever remembered for his kindness, integrity, and the love he gave so freely.

In honor of Tom's memory, and in recognition of his struggle with Alzheimer's disease, the family kindly requests that donations be made to support research sponsored by the Alzheimer's Association. A link to their donation page is here: https://www.alz.org/?form=FUNSTKLFHDM