The Jersey Shore has lost one of its most esteemed and beloved residents with the passing of Thomas Joseph Philburn, affectionately known as Tom, TJ, dad, uncle, brother, Captain, and Poppop on May 9, 2024.
Born on a crisp, wintery Thursday December day in 1954, in Middletown, New Jersey to Marion Hunt and William Philburn. Tom was born, raised and lived most of his days in New Jersey. His life and legacy deeply interwoven within the communities he loved and served in Monmouth and Ocean counties.
Tom’s early years were shared with his siblings, Laura, and Helen being a loving, kind, and protective older brother. His journey began with the Boy Scouts, leading him to St. James in Red Bank, graduating from Red Bank Catholic High School in 1973. Briefly becoming a lifeguard along the Jersey Shore. His thirst for adventure and sailing led him to become a Petty Officer in the US Navy.