Tom was born in St. Petersburg, FL on February 4, 1937. After high school he joined the Navy and served on carriers for four years. Then he attended college and graduated with degrees in education and music. Tom taught music at Eau Gallie High School, then went into administration. He wrote the school song and was asked years later to compose another piece of music for the current choir. Many times over the years individuals who had him for music would thank him for giving them a better understanding and appreciation for music. He was an assistant principal at Johnson Jr. High, principal at Sea Park Elementary and Roy Allen Elementary. During the middle of his educational career, he worked at the district level and wrote grants and supervised Special Programs for Brevard County Schools.

He married Margaret in his early years and they had three children, Rick, Janine, and Russ. Later he married Judy Sylvester. They were married for 35 years. In that time they enjoyed many wonderful years with family and friends. For over 10 years they traveled in their motorhome with various family members.

After he retired from education, he started a second career as a Church Treasurer for St. Paul's United Methodist Church where he served for 16 years. He also was the Treasurer for the Longwood Homeowners Association for over 20 years.

His love for music and the Lord was always evident. Tom directed or song in church choirs for over 60 years. He also was a singer in the Community Choir and Indialantic Chamber Choir. In addition he played in three Handbell Choirs, St. Paul's and Eastminster Presbyterian for a combined 30 years. After he retired as an educator for Brevard County Schools, he was asked to teach Music Theory at Brevard Community College which he did for 3 years.

Tom was the Ducum Sunday School President and taught Sunday School at St. Paul's Methodist Church for over five years. He also was a member of the Worship Committee, Finance Committee and Trustees. Tom designed most of the bylaws and policies at St. Paul's United Methodist Church throughout the 25 years he attended.

He gave a dedicated service of Christian love to others through the Hospice Program and as a Stephen Minister. For sever years he was a trainer for the Stephen Ministry Program at St. Paul's and Eastminster. As a Stephen Minister he made weekly visits for around eight years. He was an active member of Eastminster Presbyterian for the past 10 years.

We will miss being a part of his life. He influenced many individuals in his lifetime. Many times individuals would come up to him to thank him and tell him how he had been a positive influence in their lives.

He was a wonderful husband, father, brother, Papa, and friend.

We will all miss this faithful servant and treasure our precious memories of our wonderful times together now that the Lord has called him home.

Surviving family members are his wife Judy Sylvester, sons Rick Sylvester (Kristel Curtis), Russ Sylvester (Michelle) and daughters Janine Brooks (Scott), Tracy McGary (Matt), Deanna Dixon and sister in law Dawna Hoff.

Grandchildren are Brittany Palermo (Shea), Brian Brooks (Kayla), Jessica Sylvester (Elizabeth), Bryson McGary, Ashlyn McGary and Caitlyn Dixon.

Great Grandchildren are Isla, Everleigh, Patton and Taylor.

His sister, Gail Bishop (George); his uncle: Jay and cousin: Lee.