Obituary of Thomas M. Brady
Thomas Michael Brady, a devoted family man and innovative professional, passed away on Monday, October 14, 2024, at the New Jersey Veterans Memorial Home in Menlo Park, New Jersey. He was 94 years old.
Born on August 21, 1930, in Brooklyn, New York to the late John and Ellen Sterling Brady, Tom was one of 9 children. Thomas spent his early years in the vibrant boroughs of Queens, including Maspeth and Jackson Heights, where he met his beloved wife, Mary. They were married in 1956 and lived in Jackson Heights until they bought a house in Bethpage, Long Island. In 1963, they settled in Martinsville, NJ.
A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, Thomas served his country from 1951 to 1954 during the Korean conflict. His service included a significant stint in Japan and later in Maine, experiences that enriched his worldview and deepened his sense of duty. Following his military service, Thomas embarked on a successful career as a photographer in the screen-printing industry. He was recognized as an innovator, particularly for developing formulas that enhanced ink adhesion to vinyl, contributing to major projects, including Mattel's popular toy lines like Barbie's Dreamhouse.
Thomas's love for the outdoors matched his commitment to a DIY ethic. Never one to shy away from a challenge, he was adept at car repairs, plumbing, and any task that called for a hands-on approach. His watercolor paintings expressed his artistic side, and he kept abreast of technological advances, skillfully using Photoshop to manipulate images well into his later years.
A community-minded individual, Thomas was an active member of the Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed volunteering alongside his wife at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Florida, particularly in their food pantry. His travels took him to numerous historical sites across America and family vacations in the Florida Keys and Tampa.
Thomas deeply cherished his role as "Pop Pop" to his grandchildren, who brought immense joy and pride to his life. His unwavering support and love for his grandchildren were evident in every aspect of his life, from attending their sporting events and performances to sharing stories and laughter at family gatherings. His love for his grandchildren was a testament to his warm and affectionate nature.
Thomas was predeceased by his wife, Mary, in 2019; his daughter, Bettianne, in 2021; his son-in-law, Jack Moran, in 2001; and his eight siblings.
He leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication to his surviving family: his children, Mary Moran, Tom Brady (Eva Bostek-Brady), John Brady (Karen), Patricia Idell (Chris), and Sara Brady (Kevin Wilson); grandchildren, Jack (Kate), Christopher, James, Ethan, Graham, Heather, Iain, Kyle, Jenny, Jessica, Christopher, Caileigh, Liam, Finn, and Maeve; and great-granddaughter, Maya.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 16, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at Higgins Home For Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd., Watchung, NJ. A funeral mass will take place the following day at Our Lady of the Mount Chapel, 167 Mount Bethel Rd., Warren, New Jersey. Thomas will be laid to rest alongside his wife, Mary, at Holy Cross Cemetery in Basking Ridge, New Jersey.
In lieu of flowers, please consider sending a donation to: Our Lady of Guadalupe Food Pantry c/o Catholic Migrant Mission, 16650 U.S. Highway, 301 South Wimauma, FL, 33598, https://www.ourladyspantry.com/wish-to-donate/. His remarkable life, marked by service, creativity, and devotion, will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew him.
