Thomas Edward Ekleberry of Fair Haven, lovingly known as Tommy, passed away April 11, 2025, at the age of 73. Born Nov. 6, 1951, in Newark, he was the beloved son of the late Robert Gene Ekleberry and Dorothy Gibson.
Tommy spent his early years in Red Bank before his family moved to Fair Haven in 1960 – the town he called home for the next 45 years.
He attended St. James Elementary School and graduated from Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School. His passion for food led him to the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, where he honed the skills that would become the foundation of a life dedicated to bringing people together through his cooking.
A familiar face in the Monmouth County culinary scene, Tommy was the head chef at Rumson Country Club for 11 years and also left his mark at well-loved establishments, including Lock, Stock & Barrel, Hook Line & Sinker, and the Channel Club. His warmth, wit and unmatched talent in the kitchen made him not just a chef but a friend and mentor to many.
Later in life, Tommy relocated to Toms River, where he opened Tom’s Riverside Deli and became locally famous for his incredible soups. Even in retirement, his love for the kitchen pulled him back – he returned to work seasonally at Pine Barrens Golf Club, where he remained until just days before his passing.
Outside of the kitchen, Tommy’s passions were wide. He was an avid golfer, surfer, devoted gardener, a fan of the Grateful Dead and Bob Dylan, and a handyman who was always repairing or painting the house. He looked forward to watching The Masters every April and this year rooted for Rory early in the second round.
Above all, Tommy’s greatest pride was his family. The birth of his only grandchild, Hunter Thomas, was a shining moment in his life. He embraced his role as Pop Pop with love, laughter and a sparkle in his eye, spending most Sundays with Hunter sharing new foods.
Tommy was predeceased by his parents and his brothers, Ricky and Jimmy. He is survived by his three loving children, Dylan, Megan and Jesse; their mom Cynthia; his cherished grandson Hunter Thomas; his sisters, Kathleen Skeen, Ruth Wallman and Mary Gazzo; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends who will deeply miss his generous spirit and, of course, his unforgettable cooking.
Visitation with a prayer service was held April 19 at Thompson Memorial Home, Red Bank. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Tommy’s memory by sharing a good meal with someone you love – and turning up a little Grateful Dead.
The article originally appeared in the April 24 – 30, 2025 print edition of The Two River Times.
