Here is the obituary that will run tomorrow.
Thomas James Lawrence – Big Tom to his friends – 52 years old, a madly-in-love husband, son, brother, and friend died on February 2, 2009 of brain cancer.
In 1999, Tom married his best friend and soul mate Theresa Strong. Never a brother-in-law or son-in-law, Tom was a brother and a son in at least two families.
Tom’s passion for photography and video was apparent both personally and professionally. Involved in many projects, he was particularly proud of his efforts documenting the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and the last days of death row inmates, with a compassionate yet honest eye.
Big Tom ran ten marathons and climbed to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Tom loved music. He played the sweetest acoustical guitar you have ever heard; he loved the Blues but never sang them; he celebrated classic rock and was a Beatles scholar. He was a master of technology and loved all things Apple. Despite his credentials, Tom's real strength was never external. His power came from within, very deep within. Big Tom knew about balance: he valued a good movie on a Friday night with Theresa as much as running 26.2 miles or editing a documentary. Truly unflappable, Tom was sage to his friends; knowledgeable, kind, and revered for his wisdom and good judgment.
Tom impressed everyone he met with his quiet strength, and we all will continue to be inspired by the way he lived his life. Thank you Big Tom. Namaste our dear friend. We will see you again soon.
Tom’s Memorial Service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, February 7, 2009 at Second Christian Church, 4801 Edison St. , (Corner of Edison and Cavalcade) Houston, TX 77009. 713.692.3503. A celebration will follow at Tom and Theresa’s home. At Tom’s request, donations can be made in his honor to Cal Farley's Boys Ranch (www.calfarley.com) ; or Habitat for Humanity (www.houstonhabitat.org).
4 comments:
Amen! What a beautiful tribute to Tom, and so apt. Tom, we love you, and Theresa, we love you.
Hi my friend,
I've been trying to find the right words to say to you, but I am beginning to believe they do not exist.
While I went through a loss similar in certain respects with the passing of my step-father, I cannot fathom what you are feeling after losing such a wonderful, caring, and loving husband.
I was honored to have known him and only regret not having spent more time with him. He was a truly remarkable man in a world where so many strive only for mediocrity.
My love and prayers are with you.
Joanne
Theresa,
I am profoundly saddened to hear of Tom’s passing. I know he fought with courage and determination, just as he lived his life. That strength is a gift he has left you. My heart is open to you and your family.
Chris Nicolaou
As a friend from long ago, I was deeply saddened to learn of Tom's passing but grateful for his peace, knowing he's on to a place where we'll all be better for his advocacy! To such a touching obituary, I can only add what a pleasure it was knowing him and enjoying working with him on a few special projects, ancient though they may be, including a Noel Paul Stookey recorded intro to the musical relief work of Jim Newton (HugWorks-formerly Celebration Shop) and a promotional piece for The Fair Park Friendship Center ministry in inner city Dallas. But the thing I am most indebted to him for is introducing me to The Indigo Girls! I remember the day as though it were yesterday. He truly was a man of spirit, music and integrity. Wish we could have the opportunity to meet someday, Theresa, but until then, please know that you are both in my thoughts and prayers with immense gratitude for the joy your lives together brought to this planet...and the singular love Tom always shared so generously. Caryl Sherman-Gonzalez
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