Obituary of Thomas J. Whalen

Obituary for Thomas J. Whalen Thomas J. Whalen, 68, of Staten Island, passed away peacefully at Calvary with his family by his side on October 1, 2022, after a fifteen-year battle with illness. Tom was the beloved husband of Geralyn (Darragh) for 24 wonderful years; loving father of Mary, Thomas Jr. (Shakira), Colin and Darragh and adored grandfather of Jaesun; cherished brother of Patrick (Mary), Maureen, Joseph (Janice), Kevin (deceased), Peter (Madeline). He was the fun-loving uncle to countless nieces and nephews. Tom was pre-deceased by his parents Patrick Whalen and Anna Pauline (Lane). Tom was born in Brooklyn on December 15, 1953. He grew up in Bay Ridge before going off to High School at Saint Joseph’s Seminary in Princeton, New Jersey. Tom began his career as a corrections officer before heading to the New York Transit Police where he would serve in Transit Rescue and ultimately in the NYPD Emergency Service Unit, all tolled serving the city for 27 years. Tom served bravely during and after the attack on the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. On that day he was leading from the front lines as he often would, and it unfortunately took its toll. Tom followed his father into a life of police work and was joined by his two brothers and ultimately his daughter. It was a source of pride to serve the city with his family by his side. Tom showed the same commitment to his family and friends. He was always there to lend a hand with a smile and the eagerness to make someone’s day easier. Mel Brooks movies were a favorite and he would love to sit with his 4 children, quote the movies and laugh. Tom was kind, humble and a very special soul. A beautiful light transitioned to heaven, and we will miss him forever!!! Family and Friends are welcomed to visit Monday 10/10/22, 2pm-4pm and 7pm-9pm, Matthew Funeral Home, 2508 Victory Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10314. Mass of Christian Burial, Tuesday 10/11/22, 10am St. Patrick’s Church, 53 St. Patrick’s Place, Staten Island, NY 10306. Tom loved nothing more than Catholic Education. In lieu of flowers we ask that you donate to either St. Peter’s Boys High School 200 Clinton Avenue Staten Island New York 10301 St. Joseph Hill Academy High School 850 Hylan Blvd. Staten Island New York 10305 Tom was so grateful for the education our children received at these schools. It was his wish that other students could have the opportunities provided by these wonderful schools. Visitation at the Matthew Funeral Home, Inc., 2508 Victory Boulevard, on Monday, 10/10, from 2:00 to 4:00 and 7:00 to 9:00 pm. Funeral departing on Tuesday, 10/11, at 9:00 am. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Patrick’s R.C. Church at 10:00 am. Private cremation to follow.