The Woodward family announced the peaceful passing of their kind and loving father, John Thomas (Tom) Woodward, of Middletown, formerly of Little Silver, Sept. 14, 2025, at the age of 91, surrounded by his loved ones.
Born in Chester, Pennsylvania, Tom was a beloved educator, small business owner and investor who possessed a brilliant mind in the most unassuming ways. He was a great example to family and friends of kindness, service and hard work, and a monument to the adage, “You reap what you sow.” Being a good man, he lived a good life.
Upon discharge from the Navy after the Korean War, Tom attended the University of Pennsylvania’s dual degree engineering/Wharton program. A man of diverse interests, Tom found enjoyment reading physics books for pleasure, conquering the New York Times crossword puzzle daily, having season tickets to The Metropolitan Opera, traveling the country to watch his Philadelphia Eagles play, and sharing his love of Broadway shows and The New York Yankees with his children and grandchildren any chance he had.
Incomparably skilled with his hands, Tom built and renovated everything from homes to cars. More than any personal accomplishments, Tom was especially proud of his wife’s business success, happy to remain in the background and let her shine. He found great joy in his later years spending time with his grandchildren, relishing in their achievements, and his daily workout at the gym.
Tom was predeceased by his beloved wife, Gloria née Vogel; his parents, John B. and Emma née Ebright; and his sister, Judy Milne. He is survived by his children, Lisa (Dr. Paul Carpinello), John “JT” (former wife Bonnie), Richard (Catherine), and Pamela (Louis Villano); 13 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. A loving family man, he will be sorely missed.
The article originally appeared in the October 2 – 8, 2025 print edition of The Two River Times.
