Thomas Francis Donlon Sr., 84, passed peacefully at home surrounded by his family on October 30, 2024. A beloved family man and community member, Tom was the second of three sons- Sonny, Tom & Joey- born to Edward and Anna Donlon and raised in an Irish Community in North Newark.
Tom attended Our Lady of Good Counsel Grammar School and graduated from Barringer High School in Newark in 1957. After graduation, Tom partnered with his brother, Sonny, in opening The Donlon Diner in West Orange, which he owned for several years. Tom also managed the Blue Castle Diner in downtown Jersey City with his cousin, Jimmy Donnelly.
After leaving the hospitality industry, Tom was employed by P.I.E. Trucking Company in Jersey City where he held the role of Shop Steward. Following several years in the trucking industry, Tom returned to the restaurant and bar business as managing bartender at Dolan’s Tavern in North Bergen, Sully’s Tavern in Jersey City, and Bobby D’s in Jersey City. Tom later retired from the Jersey City Incinerator Authority.
The best thing Tom did in his lifetime was marrying the love of his life, Henrietta Mary Wedra of West Wyoming, PA. Together, Tom and Hennie shared their greatest accomplishment, their four beautiful children: Kathleen Anne (married to Rich McGuigan), Karen Eileen (married to Paul Russell), Thomas Francis, Jr. (married to Amy Davis) and Kevin Fitzgerald (married to Dana Gerber). Tom and Hennie were blessed with eleven wonderful grandchildren, Hugh, Hayden, Emily, Shannon, Colleen, Erin, Morgan, Brendan, Ryan, Kellen, and Ciara who all adored their Pop-Pop. Tom always enjoyed the company of his loyal pals, “Rosco”mmon and Ozzie.
As a proud fan of Notre Dame football, Army or Navy (depending on the score) and New York Mets, Giants and Rangers, Tom never missed an opportunity to attend, watch, cheer and tailgate for his favorite teams with his favorite people. As a true die hard Mets fan, he chose to pass on the day the Yankees lost the World Series. Above all, he was always the biggest fan of his family, from the sidelines, court-side, rink-side, and every St. Patrick’s parade route.
Pop-Pop was always good for a big hearty laugh to go along with his big bowl of ice cream and his legendary big-fish stories. He touched countless lives with his big personality, kindness, laughter, generosity, and genuine care for people.
Tom took great pride in his Catholic faith, his Irish heritage, and his roots in Newark and Jersey City. He was also a dedicated member with his Brothers in the Ancient Order of Hibernians - Division I, Hudson County, Fr. Mychal Judge Charter, where he once served as Vice President. Above all, his greatest source of pride was always his family, often reminding us all to never forget where we come from and that without each other, we don’t have anything.
Tom will be dearly missed by the many people he touched in his life. The family will be holding a Funeral Mass and Celebration of Life for Tom in early January. Please check back on this website for the details when they become available.
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