Thomas John Jensen

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Thomas John Jensen, beloved husband, father, and grandfather. Tom passed away on July 11 at Overlook Medical Center in Summit, New Jersey, at the age of 84.

Tom was born to Henry and Mary Jensen on January 29, 1942, in Winsted, Connecticut, where he was raised.

Known to family and friends as Tom, Tommy, or TJ, he graduated from Wagner College, Staten Island, New York, with a BS in Economics in 1964. During his time at Wagner, Tom worked at the U.S. Public Health Service Hospital on Staten Island. Following graduation, he proudly served in the Army National Guard, including active duty during the 1967 Newark Riots.

Tom followed in the footsteps of his father-in-law, John Murphy Sr., and built a successful career in the trucking industry. He joined Trans American Trucking Service in 1988, where he became Director of International Projects and enjoyed traveling to various countries.

While attending college, Tom met his future wife, Sally Murphy, who was attending Notre Dame College, also on Staten Island. Together they built a life in Union, New Jersey, where they lived and raised their children for nearly 50 years.

Tom is survived by his devoted wife, Sally; his son, David Jensen, and wife Deirdre; his daughter, Jill Jensen Rivetti, and husband Carmine; his grandson, Henry Rivetti; his brother-in-law, William Murphy; and his nephews, John Murphy III and Brian Murphy.

Tom is predeceased by his parents, Henry and Mary Jensen; his parents-in-law, John and Helen Murphy; and his brother-in-law, John Murphy Jr.

Tom's love of dogs was evident throughout his life and became a tradition he passed down to his children. The family home was never without a dog—sometimes two—and he held a special place in his heart for every one of them. In addition to dogs, Tom loved cars, especially Porsches, and his beloved New England Patriots.

Tom will be remembered for his easygoing nature, quick wit, and remarkable sense of humor. His one-liners and perfectly timed jokes would leave family and friends laughing for days. Above all else, Tom's greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, proud father, and loving grandfather whose presence, laughter, and steady support will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in Basking Ridge, New Jersey.