Thomas Edward Ekleberry, lovingly known as Tommy, passed away on April 11, 2025, at the age of 73. Born on November 6, 1951, in Newark, NJ, he was the beloved son of the late Robert Gene Ekleberry and Dorothy Gibson.
Tommy spent his early years in Red Bank before his family moved to Fair Haven in 1960—the town he called home for the next 45 years. He attended St. James Elementary School and graduated from Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School. His passion for food led him to the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY, where he honed the skills that would become the foundation of a life dedicated to bringing people together through his cooking.
A familiar face in the Monmouth County culinary scene, Tommy was the Head Chef at Rumson Country Club for 11 years and also left his mark at well-loved establishments including Lock, Stock & Barrel, Hook Line & Sinker, and the Channel Club. His warmth, wit, and unmatched talent in the kitchen made him not just a chef, but a friend and mentor to many.
Later in life, Tommy relocated to Toms River, NJ, where he opened Tom’s Riverside Deli and became locally famous for his incredible soups. Even in retirement, his love for the kitchen pulled him back—he returned to work seasonally at Pine Barrens Golf Club, where he remained until just days before his passing.
Outside of the kitchen, Tommy’s passions were wide. He was an avid golfer, surfer, devoted gardener, a fan of the Grateful Dead and Bob Dylan, and handyman who was always repairing or painting the house. He looked forward to watching The Masters every April, and this year, rooted for Rory early in the 2nd round.
Above all, Tommy’s greatest pride was his family. The birth of his only grandchild, Hunter Thomas, was a shining moment in his life. He embraced his role as “Pop Pop” with love, laughter, and a sparkle in his eye, spending most Sunday’s with him sharing new foods.
Tommy was predeceased by his parents and brothers, Ricky and Jimmy. He is survived by his three loving children Dylan, Megan, Jesse, their mom, Cynthia, his cherished grandson, Hunter Thomas, his sisters, Kathleen Skeen, Ruth Wallman, Mary Gazzo and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends who will deeply miss his generous spirit, and, of course, his unforgettable cooking.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 19th from 12-2 pm with a prayer service at 1:30 pm at Thompson Memorial Home, 310 Broad St, Red Bank, NJ 07701. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor his memory by sharing a good meal with someone you love—and turning up a little Grateful Dead.
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