Page created by: Susan Stoddard

Thomas G. Black, born February 24, 1943, passed away at Yale New Haven Hospital on June 19, 2025 at the age of 82.

Tom was a longtime resident of Guilford and husband to the late Barbara (Peck) Black. He is survived by his devoted children, Sarah (Black) Lingenheld (Jesse) of Simsbury and Seth Black of Pawtucket, RI, and his grandson Benjamin Lingenheld. He is also survived by his loving partner of 25 years, Sue Stoddard.

Tom grew up in Woodbridge, Connecticut, son of the late Raymond Black and Nan Chase Black. He was a graduate of Amity High School, Class of 1961 and went on to attend Bucknell University.

Tom honorably served his country in the Army from 1967 to 1970, achieving the rank of First Lieutenant. He spent the majority of his service stationed in Turkey, an experience he often reflected on with pride.

Professionally, Tom dedicated over five decades to Blakeslee Prestress in Branford, CT as Purchasing Engineer, where his problem solving and practicality earned him the respect of colleagues and clients alike. An engineer at heart, Tom could fix almost anything. Early in life, he embarked on a cross-country road trip in a car he had assembled with a childhood friend. In his younger years, Tom enjoyed gamebird hunting and was a proud member of the Racebrook Game Club and the Guilford Sportsman’s Club.

For over 30 years, Tom hosted a lively and much-anticipated Christmas party after the tree lighting on the Guilford Green, bringing together friends from all chapters of his life. The celebrations were often raucous and full of cheer, a true reflection of Tom’s vibrant spirit. He was known for his sharp wit and bright humor, which lit up every room and frequently inspired playful antics.

A man of wide-ranging interests and boundless energy, Tom was a lifelong enthusiast of history and antiques. He played an active role in the Guilford Keeping Society, serving as President for many years and dedicating himself to preserving the town’s rich heritage. Tom was also instrumental in founding the Guilford Youth Lacrosse program, creating opportunities for local children, including his own, to enjoy and grow through the sport.

He was deeply involved in his grandson Ben's life, teaching him to fish and cheering him on at sports games. He and Sue shared a joyful life, entertaining on High Island and enjoying their many passions and trips together.

After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s, Tom made many friends with others affected by this disease, as well as their spouses, as they actively supported each other through this journey together. Parkinson's boxing classes where a very important part of his life and he religiously went three times a week. Tom also attended monthly talks with speakers who were expert in this field, as well as attending monthly support group sessions. Tom and a few of his Parkinson's friends were lucky enough to meet Michael J. Fox one evening out at dinner where they quickly went up to him to tell him how appreciative they were of all he had done towards research on this unwelcome disease.

Friends are invited to calling hours on July 10 from 4-7pm at the Guilford Funeral Home, 115 Church St. Guilford. In lieu of flowers, please honor Tom's memory with a donation to the Michael J. Fox Foundation or the Guilford Keeping Society.