Obituary of Thomas P. Jennings

Thomas P Jennings Sr., 69, of Howell, passed away peacefully at home on November 13, 2023 surrounded by his family.

Tom was born in Newark, NJ and was raised in nearby Kearny. He graduated from Essex Catholic High School, became part of the "Kearny Korner", and met his wife there. He lived there for many years before moving to Howell, NJ in 1989.

Tom enjoyed spending time in Seaside Heights when he was younger and at his grandfather's home on Pelican Island. He enjoyed simple things in life like spending time with his family, walking the boardwalk, collecting antiques, and retelling the history of the Boy Scouts and Kearny, NJ. He enjoyed a good slice of Maruca's tomato pie or some "real" fish and chips.

Prior to his July retirement, Tom worked for 20 years at the State of New Jersey Purchasing Department. He had also worked for Prudential, Saker ShopRites, and Bilkay's Express Co.

Tom suffered a stroke in February 2023 and he fought hard to regain some normalcy in his life. He pushed himself to stand, speak clearer, sit for longer periods, and even take some steps. He was extremely happy to be present to give his daughter Nicole's hand in marriage at her wedding ceremony to his buddy Juan Girau. Recently, another stroke robbed Tom of his speech and more of his ability to do things.

Tom is predeceased by his parents Thomas and Ruth Jennings and his mother and father-in-law Louis and Margaret Rowe. Surviving are Tom's wife of 45 years, Kathleen Rowe Jennings, his daughter Nicole and husband Juan Girau, his son Thomas and wife Mary Kate Jennings and his grandchildren Chip and Riley Jennings who brought him so much joy. Also surviving are Tom's brothers who rallied beside him, Kevin Jennings and his wife Kay, and Brian Jennings and his wife Missy.

A celebration of Tom's life will be held on Thursday, November 16, 2023 from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at Clayton & McGirr Funeral Home, 100 Elton-Adelphia Road (Route 524), Freehold Township. Cremation will be private. For information, directions or condolence messages to the family, visit www.claytonfuneralhome.com.