Thomas Stephen Gilligan

Thomas Stephen Gilligan, 92, of Sarasota, Florida, passed away peacefully at home on October 26, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on September 11, 1933, in Springfield, Massachusetts, Tom lived a life filled with kindness, laughter, and purpose. He was known for his quick wit, his deep generosity, and his unwavering faith – a man who found joy in helping others, making people laugh, and cherishing every moment with those he loved.

Tom graduated from Providence College in 1954 and proudly served in the U.S. Army until 1957. After his service, he began a long and successful career with Western Electric, later AT&T, where his leadership, curiosity, and drive to innovate took him across the country. Over nearly four decades, Tom became a trusted mentor and respected professional, completing leadership programs at Penn State, MIT Lincoln Laboratories, and AT&T’s Manufacturing Program. He was also a charter member of the Machine Vision Association of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers and an active member of several professional organizations, always eager to learn and share knowledge.

Among his many accomplishments, Tom was especially proud of being chosen to join the U.S. Government’s Semi-Automatic Ground Environment (SAGE) program. His work there pioneered early radar and communication systems for national defense – a contribution he spoke of with pride.

Outside of his professional life, Tom gave freely of his time and energy to his community. He previously served as President of the Lee’s Summit Rotary Club, was an active member of the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce, and spent many hours volunteering with Junior Achievement.

But the true heart of Tom’s life was his family. Married to his beloved wife, Janice (Murphy) Gilligan, for 68 wonderful years, together they built a life rich with laughter, faith, and adventure. The two shared a love of travel – whether playing golf all over the country or embarking on an incredible 233 cruises around the world – and treasured every journey as an opportunity to meet new friends and make new memories.

Tom had a sweet tooth that was well-known among family and friends, especially his love for daily ice cream desserts. His sense of humor was constant and contagious, and he had a special way of making everyone around him feel valued and heard. He often said, “If that’s what you want to do, go for it,” – words that inspired those he loved to live fully and fearlessly.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Janice; daughters Catherine Reynolds (Louis), Sheila Josephson (Donald) and Janice Rinck; and grandchildren, Connor, Bradley (Rachel), Evan, Sarah, Caitlin, Kathryn, Jack, George, Alexis, and Nicole. Tom was preceded in death by his daughter Nancy and son Stephen, who he now joins in eternal peace.

Tom will be remembered for his humor, his adventurous spirit, and his generous heart. He was the kind of man who made every room brighter, every story funnier, and every person he met feel like a friend. His love of faith, family, and life itself leaves an enduring legacy that will continue to guide and comfort those who knew him.

Family and friends are invited to attend the funeral service on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 425 S. Tamiami Trail, Osprey, FL.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society in Tom’s memory. The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Lunin and the team at Tidewell Hospice, especially William, for their kindness and compassionate care.

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