Lifelong Staten Islander, Thomas M. Hafey of Port Richmond, passed away on Thursday, February 25, 2021 at Richmond University Medical Center. Tom was born on June 19, 1936 to Catherine (Ward) and Michael Hafey. Tom attended Port Richmond High School.
Tom worked as a printer at Holland American Cruise Line and First Boston Corporation. Tom then joined the New York City Transit Authority where he worked for 24 years as a Conductor on the R train from Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. Tom retired from the Transit Authority in 2000 to assume his role as "Poppy" to his grandchildren. He was their greatest fan cheering them on at their sporting events.
Tom was an active parishioner of Blessed Sacrament Church. He was a long time member of the Hillside Swim Club for 49 years and Hillside's Senior Club, Knights of Columbus, Decker Avenue Civic Association, and the NYC Transit Emerald Society. Tom enjoyed traveling with his wife Carol. They first met down at the Jersey Shore where they were each renting a summer house. Their favorite vacation spot though was the Catskill mountains, where they spent many summers with family and friends. Bus trips to Atlantic City, cruises, and trips with the family to Disney World were where he also enjoyed most. Tom loved their home and took pride in renovating it over the years. He loved to sit on the front porch reading the Staten Island Advance each day with a cup of coffee and pastry from the neighborhood bakery.
Left to cherish Tom's loving memory are his beloved wife of 55 years, Carol (Tackett) and devoted daughters, Sherri Leonard and Jennifer King. He had a special bond with his two sons-in-laws, whom he adored and thought of as sons, Robert Leonard and Matthew King. He will be forever remembered as the beloved Poppy to his six pride and joy grandchildren, Michael, Meghan, Ryan Leonard and Daniel, James, Caitlyn King; as well as by his siblings Michael Hafey, Catherine Ransom and Gladys Alexander. Pre-deceased were his sister, Mary Landano, brothers, John and Frank Hafey.
Family was everything to Tom. Spending time with his siblings, nieces, nephews, many cousins, in-laws and friends were one of his favorite things to do. He will be deeply missed for his kind heart, strong faith, love of family, wisdom, determination in facing obstacles, and dry Irish wit.
Visitation will be on Wednesday, March 3rd, 4pm-8pm @ Harmon Funeral Home Staten Island 10310. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Blessed Sacrament Church on Thursday, March 4th at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Tom's memory to Meals on Wheels Staten Island.
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