Thomas Reilly, treasured his family

Thomas Reilly, 74, passed away Thursday, June 5, 2025, at home in Lewes after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Thomas will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his wife Anne Reilly; and his cherished stepchildren, Christopher Carter, his wife Noelle, and their daughter Nora, Catherine Carter and her husband Scott, and Andrew Carter and his partner Caroline. Thomas was predeceased by his beloved parents, Helen and Thomas Reilly; and his infant son, Joshua.

Tom was born in Newark, N.J., and grew up in Somerset County, N.J. He graduated from Florida State University with a major in psychology and business. After graduation, he worked as an offset printer at Newark Star Ledger while attending night classes at Rutgers University to pursue a career in taxation as a certified tax assessor. Tom began his career at the New Jersey Division of Taxation as a field representative and retired after 37 years in government service as the assistant director.

He enjoyed cycling, traveling, and walking the trails and beaches of Cape Henlopen State Park and Rehoboth Beach with Anne and their beloved golden retriever, Poppy. Tom spent the long winters at his home in Estero, Fla., and enjoyed exploring the beach areas along the Gulf Coast. He loved sailing and working on his boat for many years throughout his lifetime. Tom was an avid reader of mystery novels and liked doing home improvement projects. He enjoyed helping others and sharing his life skills and sense of humor with family and friends, but most of all, he loved and treasured time spent with his family. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

In accordance with Tom’s wishes, a private memorial service was held honoring his life.

His family would like to thank the medical teams at Beebe Healthcare, Christiana Hospital, Tunnell Cancer Center, and AccentCare Hospice for their excellent care and profound kindness throughout Tom’s illness.

Visit Tom's Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.