Thomas F. Cahill

Thomas Francis Cahill, born on June 7, 1953, in Boston, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2024, in Weymouth, Massachusetts.

He was the beloved eldest child of the late John H. and Patricia E. (McKenna) Cahill. A devoted and admired brother, he is lovingly remembered by his siblings: William Cahill (Nancy), Dianne Way (David), and Marcia Casey (John Sr.). Tom was more than a brother—he was a guiding force, a steady hand, and a source of unwavering support. His wisdom and humor shaped their lives in ways they will forever cherish.

He leaves behind what he fondly referred to as “his legacy,” his eight cherished nieces and nephews: Michele Reyes, Lynda McKinney, John Casey Jr., Margaret Carreiro, Lisa Golden, David Way Jr., Pamela Granville, and Patrick Casey. His love extended to his seven treasured grand-nieces and grand-nephews, who will carry forward the values he held dear.

Tom is also survived by his dear aunt, Kathleen O’Brien of Braintree, MA, as well as numerous affectionate cousins and extended family members.

A proud graduate of Braintree High School, Class of 1971, Tom pursued his passion for education, earning a Bachelor’s Degree of Education from Northeastern University in 1975.

He dedicated his life to water safety and public service, making an indelible mark on the communities he served.

Tom’s career began at the Braintree Parks and Recreation Department, where in July 1979, he received the Highest Award of Merit from The American Red Cross for heroically saving a young child’s life at Sunset Lake. A plaque presented to him by the Town of Braintree reads: “A child lives today, because of you.” This act of bravery was only one of many in his lifelong commitment to public safety.

Over the years, he became a respected leader in aquatics and first aid training across Massachusetts, serving as the long-standing Chairperson of the statewide Red Cross Health and Safety Committee. His expertise and quick action saved lives on multiple occasions, including an incident at Gath Pool in Newton, MA, where he saved a fellow employee’s eyesight.

In 1994, Tom was honored with a Lifetime Membership in The Commodore Longfellow Society, a prestigious recognition for his dedication to water safety education.

Beyond his professional achievements, Tom will be remembered for his sharp wit, pranks and generous heart. Whether he was sharing a laugh, offering words of encouragement, or teaching yet another generation how to swim, he left a lasting impact on those around him.

In accordance with Tom’s wishes, no services were held immediately after his passing.

Please join us to celebrate Tom’s life on June 7, 2025.

McDonald-Keohane Funeral Home, 40 Sea Street, North Weymouth, MA 02191

The family will be receiving visitors starting at 8:30 AM.

A remembrance service at 10 AM will be held at the funeral home.

Tom will be interred alongside our parents at Plain Street Cemetery in Braintree, MA, on what would have been his 72nd birthday.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Tom’s name may be made to the Newton Parks and Recreation Department, Aquatics Program.

Please address your donations to:

Estate of Thomas F. Cahill

53 Essex Street

Wakefield, MA 01880

May his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to all who knew him, and may his kindness and dedication live on in the hearts of those he touched.