Tomas Itaas, lovingly known to many as “Tom Cruise,” aged 66, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026, at his home in Blackwood, New Jersey. He was surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with cancer.

Legacy:

Born in the Philippines to Ireneo Itaas and Mansaya Anino, Tom carried his roots with pride and built a life grounded in hard work, humility, and deep devotion to family. He earned his Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering and Master's in Business Administration, reflecting his discipline, intelligence, and lifelong commitment to learning.

Tom dedicated much of his professional life to service and education. He worked with the Seamen’s Church Institute of Philadelphia & South Jersey, a nonprofit organization devoted to serving the human needs of merchant seafarers and the maritime community - offering practical assistance, hospitality, communication support, spiritual care, and advocacy to individuals far from home. He later served as Associate Director of Academic Achievement Programs at Stockton University, playing a vital role in the Success Scholars Program and helping countless students realize their full potential.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Tom was known for his contagious laugh, quietly grounding presence, and an unmistakable sense of humor. He was a natural jokester, humble, generous, and hardworking. Above all, he was deeply devoted to his faith and family, showing his love through constant support, quiet strength, and unwavering dedication.

Tom was a true enthusiast of life’s pleasures. He could often be found on the golf course, pickleball court, or ping pong table. As a passionate chess player, he competed in tournaments locally and even in Las Vegas. A jetsetter at heart, Tom loved traveling to destinations like Mexico, Hawaii, Aruba, Myrtle Beach, and the Philippines, where he cherished visiting his brothers and extended family. He enjoyed going out to eat, watching basketball games, and exploring new experiences, always making even ordinary moments feel special. Whether at home or abroad, Tom treasured relaxing and spending time with his family, always joking, laughing, and bringing warmth to every gathering. He was the calm mediator in a house full of girls, and nothing ever seemed to faze him. His contagious laugh and outrageous sense of style — Vineyard Vines sweaters, khakis, and Hawaiian button-ups on ordinary days — will be fondly remembered. Tom’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his laughter and love will never be forgotten

Family:

He was the beloved husband of Llane Itaas (Golez), proud father to Kara Victoria Itaas-Pelletier (Timothy), and Angelie Therese Itaas. He was the devoted grandfather to Benjamin Pelletier.

Tom is survived by his brothers Edsel, Elmer, Alvin, Romulo, Irman, and Paul, as well as his mother Mansaya Anino. He was preceded in death by his father, Ireneo Itaas.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Success Scholars Program: https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/74776/donations/new?amt=50.00

Farewell Tribute:

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Tomas' viewing on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm at McGuinness Funeral Home (573 Egg Harbor Road, Sewell, NJ.)

Morning viewing will take place on Thursday January 15, 2026 at Our Lady of Hope, St. Agnes Roman Catholic Church (701 Little Gloucester Rd., Blackwood, NJ) from 9:45 am to 10:45am with Mass of Christian Burial to begin promptly at 11:00 am.

Interment is to follow at St. Joseph's Cemetery located at 240 Lower Landing Rd. Chews Landing, NJ 08012.