It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Thomas (Tom) J. Kiley, a beloved husband, father, grandpa, uncle and friend, who touched the lives of many with his loving and adventurous spirit.
Thomas J. Kiley of Milford, Pa., passed away on June 30, 2023, surrounded by family. He was 83.
He was born on Sept. 5, 1939 in Bayonne, N.J., to Jessie and Thomas Kiley. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 50 years, Patricia Kiley, daughter Jennifer Kiley Kolvenbach (Eirik), son-in-law Jacob Gardner, grandson Connor Kolvenbach, siblings Nancy Berg (William), Robert Kiley (Eleanor), sister-in-law Shirley Pincus (Steve) and many cherished nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents Jessie and Thomas Kiley and his beloved daughter Kathleen (Katie) Kiley who passed away in 2014, leaving behind a profound sense of loss.
We find comfort in the belief that Tom’s spirit has now found a beautiful reunion, forever united with Katie in the eternal embrace of peace.
Tom’s life was an extraordinary journey filled with passion and adventure. He was a graduate of Newark College of Engineering, where he received his mechanical engineering degree. From an early age, he had an unwavering desire to take to the skies. His love for flying led him to obtain a private pilot’s license in his spare time and later received a commercial pilot license with ratings in six different jets. This led to his dream career of flying for a living. His captivating stories of flying dignitaries and celebrities always left his loved ones in awe.
Tom’s adventurous spirit was not limited to the air. He was an avid world traveler, constantly seeking new experiences. Whether skiing down snow-covered slopes, exploring the depths of the ocean scuba diving, freefalling from the sky, paddling through rivers in his kayak or perfecting his swing on the golf course, Tom embraced life to the fullest, inspiring those around him to do the same.
Despite his many accomplishments, Tom’s greatest joy was found in his family and friends. With a playful sense of humor and a knack for pulling off pranks, he never failed to light up the room with laughter and joy at every gathering.
Tom cherished the simple delights that brought him happiness, sipping on Jameson whiskey and enjoying the sweetness of ice cream. He faced any challenges in life with resilience and a contagious sense of humor, seeing them as valuable lessons.
Tom’s compassionate and non-judgmental nature made him a reliable pillar of support and reason for his loved ones.
Funeral services were held July 6 at the Stroyan Funeral Home, 405 West Harford St., Milford, Pa., with Rev. Keith Raser officiating.
The burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or The Ecumenical Food Pantry of Pike County, causes close to Tom’s heart.
As we gather to honor and reflect on the life of Tom, we find comfort in knowing that his spirit will forever reside in our hearts and memories. His love for life, devotion to his family, and his zest for adventure will continue to inspire us. Tom’s legacy of embracing life to the fullest will live on, reminding us to treasure each day as he did. He will be deeply cherished and missed.
Arrangements were made by Stroyan Funeral Home (www.stroyanfuneralhome.com).