Thomas Jerome Martin

CHICOPEE: Thomas Jerome Martin, of Chicopee, formerly of Holyoke, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on October 9th. Born on July 8, 1928, Tom lived a full and vibrant life marked by service, adventure, and deep devotion to family and community. A proud graduate of St. Jerome’s High School, Tom served in the 82nd Airborne Division of the U.S. Army, receiving an honorable discharge in 1948. Upon returning to Holyoke, he worked at Uniroyal Tires for six years before joining the Holyoke Fire Department in 1961. For twenty-five years, he served his hometown with dedication and pride—possibly as the longest-living HFD retiree. Later, he worked in sales for Allston Supply Company in Springfield, MA. In addition to his full-time firefighting duties, Tom had an entrepreneurial spirit. He owned two laundromats, a floor finishing business, and dabbled in the car business. Tom was an avid skier who passed his love of the slopes on to his five children. They spent countless hours at Mount Tom. He was a smooth dancer, a good cook, and a regular swimmer at the Springfield Boys & Girls Club. He cherished body surfing at The Dunes beach in Weekapaug, Rhode Island, and enjoyed winters as a snowbird in Lake Worth, Florida. He loved the beach, and often said, “If you are lucky enough to live at the beach, you are lucky enough.” A lifelong parishioner of St. Jerome’s Parish, Tom began as an altar boy and later served as a collector. Though once advised by a nun to sing without opening his mouth, he embraced the humor in his lack of vocal talent. He was also a proud member of the Holyoke Elks and the Massachusetts Retired Firefighters Association. Tom was the youngest of seven siblings and was predeceased by his parents, Timothy and Mary (Kennedy) Martin—both Irish immigrants—and siblings John (Marie), Timothy (Marie), Daniel (Mary), Rita Elizabeth Kelly (William), Eileen O’Connor (Robert), Mary Fitzgerald(Pat), and infant brother Edward. He is survived by the love of his life, Laura Birks, whom he met in 1986 at a Parents Without Partners dance. He leaves behind his children: Mary Kate Dillon (James), Sheila Martin (fiancé Stephen Gross), Shawn Martin, Kevin Martin, and Eileen Martin (Edward Russavage); grandchildren Patrick Putnam, Teresa Kashala, Mark and Sheila Dillon, Bradley and Erin Russavage; and great-grandchildren Mathias Dillon and twins Akim and Camila Kashala. He is also remembered by many nieces, nephews, and friends. Affectionately known as “Grandpa Tom” by Laura’s family, he will be deeply missed by Cheryl Hastings (Jon), John (Jolanta), William (Lynne) Birks, Robin Joao (Daniel), their ten grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Tom’s quirky train whistle will echo in the hearts of those who loved him, especially his grandchildren. His family and friends will forever cherish that joyful memory, as well as his vibrant blue eyes. He was blessed with lifelong friendships, especially among fellow Holyokers and his high school basketball teammates. Memorial donations may be made to the Chicopee Senior Center, the Holyoke Firefighters Fund and St. Jerome’s Parish. The Funeral will be held on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at 9:00am from the Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home, 2049 Northampton Street, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am in St. Patrick Chapel of Saint Jerome Church. Burial will follow in Saint Jerome Cemetery. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, October 14th from 4:00 to 7:00pm. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Laura Birks for keeping Tom happy and thriving, to Cheryl Hastings for her compassionate caregiving, and to the many caregivers who supported Tom in his final hours.

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