January 15th, 2024
Thomas J. Roma, age 73, departed this life on December 26, 2023 at his home in Wallingford, Pennsylvania. He was the first of four children of the late Marie and Felix Roma. After graduating from Nether Providence High School, Tom obtained a degree in electrical engineering from Case Western Reserve University, and later a master’s degree in music from Temple University.
Early in his career Tom worked as an electrical engineer for the City of Philadelphia, but soon found that his passion for music was too strong to resist, and soon left his day job in his past. In childhood he had been an excellent accordionist and later transferred that talent to the serious study of the piano under the tutelage of renowned pianist and teacher Martin Lisan. Tom knew hundreds of pieces of music by memory, in all forms, including classical, jazz, and pop. Throughout the rest of his life he taught, accompanied, and performed on piano regularly at private events and local restaurants.
Tom also was a well-known and respected astrologer. He taught classes in astrology and tarot, spoke at seminars all over the United States and in Europe, and provided private consultations. He was published continually for decades.
Always most comfortable with people around, Tom loved parties. His own were always well-attended and his company was well fed and entertained by one of the two grand pianos that always graced his living room. He was always prepared with a joke and his sharp wit made him a memorable personality to all who had the great fortune to know him.
Tom is survived by his sister Marie (Roma) Mulholland, brother Ron, cousin Judy Mack, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family and friends. Tom was predeceased by his brother Philip.
Relatives and friends are invited to Celebration of Life Service on April 20, 2024 with a visitation from 10:30 a.m.-11:30am at Ward’s Funeral Home, 1459 Market St, Linwood, PA 19061. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Tom’s memory to any non-euthanizing cat shelter.
I want to thank everyone who came or wrote such nice things about Tom. He truly had wonderful friends and it was because he was a wonderful friend himself. God bless you all and God bless my best friend n cousin Tom.
Tom, what can I say. There are so many memories of our time spent together for 28 years. I consider it a privilege to have known you and studied with you for all that time. Thank you for being my friend and teacher. Love and peace always.
Carol
When your personal email bounced back, I had a sinking feeling. We met almost 25 years ago after I graduated college and a friend got me interested in Astrology. You guided me through many of life’s ups and downs and were always kind, direct and supportive. My most recent email was to share a joyous occassion with you. I wish you love and light in heaven and everafter. I’m so sorry you’ve departed this earth too soon. With fond memories of our friendship and the kind advice and guidance you provided. I will always remember you – thank you.
Had been trying to contact Tom since COVID . I had moved several times and thought maybe he did also .Wanted to get in touch with a mutual friend ;Julie B. but my phone was borrowed then lost by a homeless friend in Galveston . So all my phone #s were now gone .I have thought of Tom often in my turmoil years which followed . Tom was always a bright light in an often dark world .Loved his quirky humor , his fantastic smile ,his love you could feel and his friendship for us girls; Grace , Diane and myself . I know you are one of the favorites of our Lord God Who loves music and your talent the gift He gave to you which you mastered and with music you touched many other people . Love you Tom always the gentleman . Hope to see you again.
Love and miss you,
Patrice
You were a great mentor and friend. I enjoyed working on the annual forecast with you. I will miss your jokes and lighthearted banter. I will catch you on the other side. Love, Carol
Tomas a good friend. He was always up beat and ready to have fun. He was the best wine brewer always having both red and white wines ready to share with everyone. I first met Tom when he walked into my dental office in tge70’s. He made a great impression on me because he was so sickly that he could hardly stand. His main complaint was that he wanted me to take out all his silver fillings. Because he felt that they were responsible for his problems. Through the better part of a year he came in and some timse calling in say he was too weak he couldn’t get out of bed. On the last visit, I didn’t think I would ever see him again. He was that weak looking.
Then to my surprise, about 5-6 years, I looked in my appointment book and saw the name Tom Roma, and I thought to myself, must be another person with that name, probably a cousin. Then that afternoon, I heard a loud old muscle car pull into my parking lot and out jumped this robust man who looked like he was ready to take on the world. I asked him was he the Tom Roma who came to my office years ago? He answered yes he was, I couldn’t believe it. I was totally flabbergasted. He was a specimens of health, and happy and very talkative I asked him what happened, he answered that I saved his life by taking out his mercury fillings. I had never seen this kind of change before in my life. From that day on we have been friends. I will miss my friend. He was on in a million. Godspeed my friend, may you save me a space in the hereafter for me. See you soon my friend.
Tom was good friend and teacher. A true artist and a strong will. He helped me start my business and we remained friends and colleagues. He was brilliant! I enjoyed the soft side of Tom when the cats were present. I’ll never forget the Christmas parties with him playing the piano. He had many talents and many friends. I will miss you so my friend.
You will always be my astrology mentor, teacher and inspiration. I miss your humor, friendship and love. Peace be with you.
Sunny