Thomas (Tom) Joseph Lawless, age 84 of Ellenton, FL, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family on March 22, 2026.
Survivors include his beloved wife of almost 63 years Carolyn (Lovell) Lawless; loving father to Gregory Wayne Lawless of Bradenton, FL, Diana Lynn (Kenneth) Tarman of Rural Retreat, VA, and Michael Edward Lawless (Jack Crocetto) of Land 0 Lakes, FL; grandfather of Erin (Akil) Piggott of Lawrenceville, GA, Nicholas Wayne Lawless ( Megan Baiamonte) of Sarasota, FL, Patrick Michael Tarman of Springfield, VA, and Joseph Lawless (Emma) Carter of Boynton Beach, FL; and great-grandfather to AJ and Kai Piggott.
Tom was the brother of Ellen Lawless Hoffmann of Garnet Valley, PA. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence Edward and Beulah (Lewis) Lawless; stepmother, Virginia Lawless Lacefield; brothers, Edward Alton Lawless and Richard William Lawless; and daughter-in-law, Angela (Vickers) Lawless.
Born on December 19, 1941, in Washington, DC, Tom worked as a firefighter in the district and, after being injured, joined the Washington, DC, Metropolitan Police Department, from which he retired in 1983. He enjoyed his family, was an avid slow-pitch softball player, and, with his wife, collected antiques and nostalgic items. Upon retirement, he and his family moved to Florida and settled in Bradenton. He worked for a poinsettia nursery and as a window maker for a period, and then settled into full retirement, during which he welcomed the birth of his grandchildren, traveled on cruises with Carolyn, and continued his love of playing slow-pitch softball until just a few years ago. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Upon his and the family's wishes, there will be no services. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Tom can be sent to the charity of your choice.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209, is in charge of arrangements.
