Thomas Joseph Sweeney

Tom and his sister Terry lived in Hyattsville, Maryland, until his father's work as an aeronautical engineer with the FAA led the family to New York City.  After graduation from Garden City High School, Tom served in Vietnam as an Aeromedical Evacuation Specialist with the Air Force. This experience forged his character and led him to pursue further education and a fulfilling career.

After earning degrees in both Photographic Illustration and Audio-Visual Technology from the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), Tom worked at RIT as a Producer/Director, as a Director at a Rochester television station, and an editor at a nationally renowned television commercial production house. During his extensive career, Tom became an expert in theatrical and movie makeup, developing an extensive list of science fiction and horror movie creatures.

Tom and his wife Niki moved to Richmond, Virginia, in 1983 where he joined Dominion Resources as the Supervisor of the Audio-Visual Department. During these busy years, Tom enjoyed puttering in his garage, attending his son’s sporting events, making trips to Northern Virginia for holidays with the extended family, and enjoying vacations together.  In 1990, Tom and Niki moved to Yorktown, Virginia, where Tom served as the Branch Head of NASA's Media Services Center. His 25-year tenure with NASA reflected his passion for innovation and excellence.

Retirement offered Tom the opportunity to indulge in hobbies such as graphic design and photo editing for friends, family, and high school sports teams located in Northern Virginia.  A Sci-Fi enthusiast, he never missed a chance to enjoy a good movie or engage in lively discussions about the "Ancient Aliens" television series.

Tom leaves behind a loving family, including his wife, Niki Sweeney; son Thomas Devon Sweeney (Amy Trepagnier, child Aaron Sweeney); and son Sean Charles Sweeney. His legacy is etched not only in their hearts but also in the many lives he touched.

A Memorial Mass in honor of Tom's life will be held at St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic Church by Rev. Bob Spencer on August 26, 2023, at 12:00 pm.

A reception will follow immediately after at the church.

The family invites friends and loved ones to join them in celebrating a life well-lived.  Interment will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Wounded Warriors Project.

Tom's memory will continue to inspire and guide all who knew him.

Arrangements by Claytor Rollins.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas Joseph Sweeney, please visit our floral store.