A Life of Faith, Courage, and Steadfast Love

Thomas Michael Fitzgerald, lovingly known as “Fitzy,” passed away peacefully at his home in Venice, Florida, just days before his eighty third birthday. Born in the District of Columbia, Tom lived a life marked by devotion to God, to family, and to his country. He carried with him an unwavering belief that goodness can always be found if you take the time to look for it.

Tom grew up in Washington and Maryland during a vibrant era, and he made the most of every moment. The 1960 football season for Archbishop Carroll High School in Washington, DC was a historic undefeated year. Under new head coach Maurice “Maus” Collins, the Lions finished with a record of ten and zero, including a victory over Eastern High School in the City Championship game at Griffith Stadium. This season marked the beginning of a dominant era, with Carroll winning thirteen WCAC titles from 1960 through 1988. Tom carried deep pride in being part of a school and a generation that left such a lasting legacy.

His youthful spirit was unmistakable even then. Before he ever bought a car, Tom bought a boat. He loved the South River in Maryland, where he spent countless summer days water skiing with friends and ending afternoons with fresh crabs. Those early memories shaped who he became: joyful, adventurous, and always ready to bring people together.

Tom received a football scholarship to Villanova University, but after shoulder injuries ended his playing days, he focused on his studies and graduated in 1965 with a bachelor’s degree in finance. While attending Villanova, he met Sallie, the sister of his future wife, Dorene. Four years after Tom graduated, Sallie introduced him to Dorene on a blind date, beginning a lifelong partnership. Tom and Dorene were married in 1969 at the Villanova Chapel by Tom’s dear friend, Fr. George Riley.

His life later carried him through Maryland, the Chicago area, and finally to Venice, Florida, the place he proudly called home. No matter where he lived, Tom’s optimism came with him. He had a gift for seeing the best in people, for finding humor even in difficult times, and for keeping a steady belief that things would work out. His laugh was unmistakable, and his outlook on life steady and hopeful. He lived a values driven life and taught those around him that wisdom grows from mistakes rather than perfection.

A devout Catholic with a strong devotion to Saint Ann, Tom lived his faith quietly but powerfully. His moral compass never wavered. He taught by example, showing that honesty matters, that kindness should be freely given, and that love is strongest when it is unconditional. His guidance often began with the familiar phrase, “All you have to do is,” a simple opening that always led to gentle wisdom or a humorous insight that stayed with you long after the conversation ended.

Tom served his country with great pride through thirty two years at the United States Treasury Department in the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. Rising to the role of District Administrator in Chicago, he earned deep respect for his integrity, his work ethic, and his steady leadership. His service to his nation was important to him, but never more important than the family he worked tirelessly to support.

His greatest joy and greatest legacy was his family. Tom is survived by his wife, Dorene Fitzgerald, his sons Michael Fitzgerald and Patrick Fitzgerald, and his grandchildren Erin Fitzgerald, Ryan Fitzgerald, Nicholas Fitzgerald, and Madelyn Fitzgerald. He is also survived by his older brother Edmund Fitzgerald and his sister Mary Ann Owen. Each of them carries pieces of his strength, kindness, humor, and enduring faith.

Tom’s life was a miracle lived in plain sight. After nearly losing him twice to leukemia in 1989 and later to lung cancer that claimed one of his lungs, he continued forward with courage that inspired everyone who witnessed it. God granted him thirty six more years, and Tom used every one of them to love his family deeply, to offer guidance freely, and to see the success and happiness of the people he had poured his life into.

He passed from this life fully at peace, right with God, and surrounded by love. He left knowing that his family was strong, faithful, and forever grateful for the man who taught them how to live with compassion, resilience, humor, and faith.

Thomas Michael “Fitzy” Fitzgerald leaves behind a legacy of integrity, hope, and devotion. His absence will be felt deeply, but his example will continue to guide all who were blessed to know him. May we honor him not with sorrow alone, but with awe for a life courageously lived and comfort in knowing he is finally home.

A Celebration of Life for Tom will be held on January 9, 2026. A Funeral Mass will take place at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 1301 Center Road in Venice, Florida, at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Venice Memorial Gardens, 1950 Center Road, at 11:15 a.m. Family and friends are then invited to a gathering at Plantation Golf and Country Club, 500 Rockley Boulevard, beginning at 12:30 p.m., where stories, memories, and the love he inspired will continue to be shared.