Thomas (Tom) G. Jerome

Thomas (Tom) G. Jerome led a faith-filled life, born on August 15, 1939, in Seneca, Kansas to Clifford M. & Bernadine (Huerter) Jerome, and was raised in Buffalo, KS with 8 siblings and 5 half siblings.

Tom was an exceptional athlete, excelling in basketball, track, baseball, handball, racquetball, and later became an avid cyclist.

After studying at Neosho County Community College and Mortuary Science College in Dallas, TX, Tom worked at funeral homes in Chanute and Ark City before transitioning to education. He earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Education from Pittsburg State University.

In 1967, Tom became the principal of Eudora’s Nottingham Elementary School, serving the community for 35 years. He also engaged in diverse roles including ambulance driver, body shop mechanic, mortician, and wedding photographer, and was an award-winning gardener.

Tom and his first spouse, Linda Campbell, had six children together. Following their parting, he remained deeply committed to his children into their adulthood with quiet generosity, never seeking recognition and always ready to offer more.

In 1989, he married Deloris Oliver (Thatcher) and gained a step-daughter, spending the next 35 years in a loving home filled with warmth and care.

Tom was an active member of Holy Family Parish in Eudora for decades, attending daily mass and serving as a communion minister and lector. He devoted his free time to exploring life’s deeper meanings through reading, devotion, and meditation.

Tom was predeceased by his parents, seven siblings, and five half-brothers. He is survived by his wife Deloris; children, Joe (Marilyn), Judy (Ed Odom), Pat, David, Diana, Michael (Angela); stepdaughter, Linzi; 14 grandchildren: Sarah, Matthew, Hannah, Lucas, Meghan, Alannah, Rebecca, Sofia, Maya, Rock, Amanda, Micaiah, Elliana, and Avery; and 3 great-grandchildren: Braedyn, Brecken, and Maddox; and brother, Jim, along with many loving nieces and nephews.

Tom will be deeply missed by his family and community. He was our steadfast support and comfort in challenging times, always there to guide and uplift us. We are grateful for his enduring love, wisdom, and the inspiring example of faith, hope, and charity he set, which will continue to resonate in our lives.

Tom’s Rosary and visitation will be on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, from 9-11 am, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 am at Holy Family Parish, Eudora, 820 Birch St. Burial at Holy Family Cemetery and a luncheon in the parish hall will follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Eudora Schools Foundation or the Eudora Food Pantry in memory of Tom Jerome, sent in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home, P.O. Box 1260 Lawrence, Kansas 66044.

Messages & Condolences

From Jennifer (Anderson)Leaf...

Thinking of all the Jerome’s, I especially knew Judy, Pat, & Joe & had fond memories of being with the family & in having Tom as our school principal. Find peace & love in your memories

From Galen Hall...

So many great memories and a wonderful family so glad I got to be part of it growing up.. So very sorry for your loss.

From Patricia Rhoades...

Yeah I remember Tom smiling at me and going what’s up Trisha he was such a authority figure I was leery of him but he was the kindest so sorry to all of the Jerome children that I knew most Mike David Diana and of course Amanda so sorry guys
Guy to everyone I am so sorry for your loss

From Deborah Wright...

Dee Jerome & Family,

We are heartbroken to hear about the loss of Tom. He was an incredible person and touched so many lives. I remember the racquet ball games we use to play years ago. He was admired by many and will be missed. Sending our condolences and prayers to your family. Matthew 5:4

The Wright’s (Audrey, Darlene and Debbie)

From Mary Beth Bialek...

Hello Dee, I am so deeply sorry to hear of Toms death. I had only met him a couple times, but he seemed like such a wonderful and spiritual man in every way. My heartfelt sympathies to you and all your families. God bless all of you.

From Robin Wieneke Black...

To the Jerome family…. Deepest sympathy for your loss. Sending healing light and energy to help you thru this difficult time.

From Julie (Mott) Nice...

Dearest Jerome Family, My goodness the fond memories I hold in my heart of Tom and all the hours we kids played together. Tom was always so compassionate and uplifting. Our paths crossed a few times since he was my school principal and he still had that welcoming twinkle in his eyes that I remembered as a child. My thoughts are with you all. Sending much love! Julie (Mott) Nice.

From Andrea Halsted(Gannaway)...

Dee & Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Tom was a great man who loved his family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

From Phil & Marsha Oliver...

For Dee and the entire Jerome family, Marsha and I extend our deepest sympathies on the passing of Tom. We were fortunate enough to know Tom as a wonderful husband, educator and stepfather to Linzi. We became aware of all his talents and accomplishments through the years we knew him. He leaves behind many happy memories for those he touched and will certainly be remembered and missed but more importantly a life well lived.

From Dave Montgomery...

Through many years and many states, I cycled with Tom on his yellow Raleigh thousands of miles every riding season. He packed for every contingency, took numerous photographs, steadfastly checked in with his family, and pushed to make sure he still could ride a hundred miles a day. Tom was good to ride with because he could pick up speed when needed to and ride hard up the hills. He thought cycling would keep his arteries clean and it was better to “wear out than rust out.” After camping every night on our week-long rides, he always got up earlier than most because he wanted to get a good headstart and make the most of the day and he did.

From Victoria Kandt...

Jerome family, I remember my interview with Tom to work at Nottingham. I came into it thinking Eudora was not going to be my choice and left thinking “I want to work here!” That is the type of positive influence Tom had for me and many others. His enthusiasm for children, education, and Eudora was truly a gift. I cherish my time working with Tom. He will be missed…

From Kelly & Dianne Gonser...

Mike, Angela & family,
We are so very sad to hear of your great loss.
We are thinking of you and your family at this very difficult time. Deepest condolences, sending our love and prayers.
Kelly & Dianne Gonser

From Carolyn (Dodson) Barnes...

Dee and family – my thoughts are with you during this trying time. Tom has touched countless lives which will be the foundation to his legacy. I know, Dee, that you are a
strong and encouraging person who will keep Tom’s memory alive in your heart.

From Sherry & Tom Moran...

Dee and family ,
I am saddened to hear of this incredible loss … Tom was so encouraging to everyone and had a smile whenever we saw him out and about, we loved being his neighbor in the 90’s . Tom was the principal when I was hired at Nottingham . Prayers and hugs to you and the family . One of the best !

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