Thomas J. Florence Sr.

Rhinebeck - Thomas J. Florence Sr, 84, a longtime resident of Rhinebeck, passed away peacefully at his home on January 16, 2026. 

Born in the Bronx on January 2, 1942, he was the son of the late Howard and Effie (Auer) Florence. 

 On February 17, 1973 he married the love of his life, Joanne Post. Joanne survives at home. 

Tom moved to Rhinebeck when he was sixteen, and graduated from Rhinebeck Highschool.  He served in the Army from 1961 to 1964.  He worked at the Hudson River Psychiatric Center for 25+ years and retired in 1996.  He also worked for the Baptist Home as a Security Guard for many years.  

He was an avid outdoorsman, he loved hunting and fishing.  In his retired years fishing became his favorite hobby.  Whether it was Lake Sepasco, Stissing Lake or his yearly Black Lake trip  with the guys, on the water is where you would find him.  He loved sharing his love of fishing with his family.  Taking Joanne out on the boat was always something he looked forward to, even if she caught the bigger fish.  

Tom was a member of the American Legion and the Rhinebeck Lions Club.  

In addition to his wife, Tom is survived by his children Nicole North (Chuck) of Rhinebeck, Tom Florence Jr (Deb) of Saugerties, Kim Weiss (Al) of Kingston and Tammy Robertson (Dirk) of Hyde Park.  Grandchildren Hunter, Zoe, Kayleigh, Maeghan, Troy, Erica, Shawn and Elizabeth.  Great grandchildren Andrew, Brandon, Justin, Liam, Julianna (due May 2, 2026) and Hawk.  . He was predeceased by his sister Lorraine Quinn.

There are no calling hours.

A Celebration of Life for visitation will be held at the American Legion Post #429 on January 24, 2026, from 4:00-7:00pm.  

Memorial donations in honor of Thomas can be made to the American Legion Post #429 or to The Michael J. Fox foundation in support of Parkinson Disease Research.

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