Thomas B. Savage, 79, of Holmdel, passed away on Friday February thirteenth at Jersey Shore Medical Center.
Thomas was born in East Orange and was a lifelong New Jersey resident, he graduated from Freehold Regional High School and then from Ricker College in Maine. From there Thomas would continue his education over the years earning an MSW from Temple University, and an MPA from NYU. Beginning in 1970, Thomas would begin his career in Social Work, working in narcotic rehabilitation. From there he would go on to help create a narcotic rehabilitation program that was introduced in the youth and young adult New Jersey prison system. Thomas would transition into youth crisis and support counseling for out-of-district placement students.
Tom married the love of his life, Tullis, in 1972 and the two raised their young family in Holmdel. Thomas was a volunteer firefighter in Colts Neck and Holmdel Serving as Chief three separate times. He was a member of the Bayshore Companion Dog Club, and a member of the Colts Neck Reformed Church for 50 years holding multiple positions including youth mentor, Consistory Decon and Pastor Search Committee member. Thomas was also a dedicated youth coach first for his sons and then his grandson, coaching both youth sports in HYAA and HYAF. Tom was more than just a coach he became a mentor and role model to many of the young men of Holmdel instilling confidence, shaping character and life direction.
Tom was happiest attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and grabbing lunch at the local dinner. He could be found driving around the yard on his tractor usually mowing the lawn or working on a project. One of his fondest memories was traveling across the country to Colorado with his sons.
Thomas is survived by his wife Tullis Savage; his children Morgan Savage and his wife Stacey, and Jake Savage and his wife Marjorie; and his grandchildren Ava, Brayden, Grace, Delaney, Charlotte, Mackenna, and Rory.
A memorial gathering will be held on Friday, February 27th from 2:00-4:00 and 7:00-9:00 PM at the Holmdel Funeral Home, 26 S. Holmdel Rd, Holmdel, NJ 07733. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 28th at 11:00 AM with calling hours from 10:00-11:00 AM at the Colts Neck Reformed Church, 139 County Rd 537, Colts Neck.
In lieu of flowers kindly send donations to the Monmouth County S.P.C.A. or the Colts Neck Reformed Church.