Obituary of Thomas E. Kenealy, Sr.

Thomas E. Kenealy Sr., 94, of Rome, NY passed away peacefully at home on March 21, 2025, after a life well lived. Born on June 27, 1930, he was a son of the late Richard F. and Elizabeth (Brady) Kenealy.

 Following graduation from high school Thomas obtained his associate’s degree. He then enlisted in the Air Force where he became a Sergeant, Thomas proudly served his country from 1951-1955. Following his time in the Air Force he was a sales rep for Gerber, his welcoming and charismatic personality led him to have a successful career and many cherished clients and co-workers.

On July 3, 1954, Thomas was united in marriage to Mary Ann Croniser at St. Mary’s Church in Constableville, NY together they shared five children whom they were both proud of. Thomas and Mary Ann shared a beautiful life and blessed marriage until her passing on June 12, 2012.

Thomas, always wanting to contribute to his community and country, kept himself busy by volunteering in various organizations. He was a member of the Stanwix Veterans Men’s Club, the Memorial Day Association, Steczko Post, The Camden Continental Fife and Drum Corps, the Veterans Counsel of Rome, the Post Commander of the American Legion, he was a member of the Moose Club, the Toccolana Club, and a member of the Bowling Hall of Fame, he was also an active member of St. Peters Church in Rome.

Thomas enjoyed time spent with friends and family, he was incredibly proud to be a grandfather and great grandfather. He was the anchor of his family who were all blessed by his long life. Being an active member of the community and contributing anywhere that he could was extremely important to him; he had an amazing gift to bring people together and befriend anyone. Thomas leaves behind a lifetime of friends, acquaintances, and family whose lives were all made brighter by knowing him.

Thomas leaves behind his children Thomas “Ted” (Karen) Kenealy Jr. of Camden, NY,  Kathleen Farrar (fiancé Brian Perry) of Rome, NY, Joseph Kenealy (fiancé Patti Carr) of East Greenbush, NY, and Rick (Pam) Kenealy of Webster, NY; son-in-law, Larry Mason of Delaware; 17 grandchildren and many great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Mary Ann Croniser, his daughter Patti Mason and his brother John Kenealy.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, from 4-7pm at Strong-Burns & Sprock Funeral Home, 7751 Merrick Rd., Rome, NY 13440. A funeral service will be held at 11am on Thursday at St. Peter’s Church in Rome. Burial with military honors will be held at St. Peter's Cemetery.

Please consider donations in Tom’s memory to the Henry P. Smith Post B-52 Restoration Fund.