Thomas J. Vivian Sr., 84, of Belford, peacefully passed away at home in his sleep May 10, 2021. Thomas was born March 18, 1937, in Long Branch, a son of the late Anna Crosson and Thomas Vivian. Tom was raised in Port Monmouth and, after marrying, he and his wife settled in Belford in 1963 to raise their family.
Tom proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Tom was an automotive supervisor for the Middletown Township Public Works for 40 years. He was a true outdoorsman. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping. He camped in Walpack for many years.
In his younger years, Tom raced cars at the Englishtown and Wall Stadium racetracks. He continued to be an avid NASCAR fan. He was also a huge Mets and Jets fan and enjoyed watching their games.
When his children were growing up, Tom was always involved in their activities. He coached recreational baseball and was even his daughters’ girl scout leader (along with his wife). Tom will always be remembered as a loving and devoted father and grandfather.
Thomas was predeceased by his wife of 42 years, Theresa Vivian, in 2002, their daughter Toni Sorochen in 2017, and twin granddaughters, Cheyenne and Jordane in 1994.
Thomas is survived by two daughters, Barbara (Richard) Fisher of Port Monmouth and Tina Johnstone of Ortley Beach, and his son Thomas Jr. of Belford. Tom also leaves behind his sister, Irene Archer of Florida, and 11 grandchildren: Alan (Amanda), Rob, Casey, Kaitlin, Nicole, T.J., Tyler, Renee, Matthew, Ollie and Theresa.
Friends and family may pay their respects from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. May 13 at Scott & Kedz Home for Funerals, 153 Church St., Belford. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. May 14 at St. Catherine’s Church, Middletown. The burial and committal will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.
The article originally appeared in the May 13 – 19, 2021 print edition of The Two River Times.
