Thomas "Tom" Ridgely Stansfield Jr.

Thomas “Tom” Ridgely Stansfield Jr., age 96, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2026, in Grosse Pointe, Michigan. He was born on October 2, 1929, in Baltimore, Maryland, to Mary Hilda (Schoenrock) Stansfield and Thomas Ridgely Stansfield Sr.

Tom is survived by his loving children: Scott Stansfield (Kathy), Susan Fowler (Gerry), Craig Stansfield (Brenda), and Sarah Simmons. He was a proud grandfather to Katie Sutton, Will Stansfield, Alexandria Fowler Teixeira, Christopher Fowler, and Cole Simmons, and a cherished great-grandfather to four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and by his beloved wife of 47 years, Edyth “Edie” (McClellan) Stansfield. Tom and Edie were married on February 13, 1954. Notably, Tom passed away on Edie’s birthday, a poignant reflection of the enduring bond they shared.

Tom spent his early years in York, Pennsylvania. He graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he was a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity. He later earned an MBA from the University of Dayton and proudly served in the United States Air Force. It was during his service that he met the love of his life, Edyth. Together, they raised their four children in Oakwood, Ohio, creating a home filled with love, laughter, and strong values.

Tom enjoyed a successful professional career, beginning as a salesman with NCR and later with Mead, where he served as Head of Mead Digital. While at NCR, he appeared on the television program What’s My Line?, featuring the Microform Bible—an experience that became a treasured and often-shared family memory. He later ventured into the advertising specialty business as an entrepreneur, becoming part owner of Colonial Ad Products and later owner of Megasales, Inc. His warmth, integrity, and natural charm earned him lasting friendships and respect. Known for never having met a stranger, Tom had a rare gift for connecting with people from all walks of life.

An avid boater, Tom treasured time spent on the water in Ohio and made many memorable journeys along the Ohio River aboard his boat, Tomfoolery, with Edie, friends, and family. He was also a lucky golfer, with his proudest moment being the first hole-in-one at the NCR Country Club. In addition, Tom was an accomplished piano and organ player, a talent he enjoyed throughout his life.

In his later years, Tom relocated to Grosse Pointe, Michigan, to be closer to family. There, he enjoyed companionship with Ruth Bradfield, became a member of the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club, and found great comfort in his two adopted three-legged cats, Cheddar and Chipper, who brought him joy and peace in his final years.

A gathering of family and friends will be held from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026 at Tobias Funeral Home - Far Hills Chapel, 5471 Far Hills Ave., Dayton, Ohio 45429, with memorial service celebrating Tom’s life at 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Heart to Heart Hospice or to a local animal adoption or rescue agency, honoring Tom’s compassion and love for animals.

Tom will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him.

Condolences may be sent to www.tobiasfuneralhome.com