Thomas C. Foley III

In the end, the love he took is equal to the love he made. Tom C. Foley III, aged 72, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2026, leaving behind a beautifully spun life dedicated to his family and a lifelong passion for a great groove.

Born in Oakland, California on January 14, 1954, Tom was raised in Daly City and lived his life like a classic 70s record—full of soul, warmth, and an unforgettable rhythm. He was deeply proud of his roots and of his alma mater, Jefferson High School, where he cherished his high school friends and eagerly looked forward to every reunion.

Tom was a man of immense joy who filled every room with music and laughter. He didn't just collect records; he lived them. He could often be found singing, dancing, playing his guitar, harmonica, or bongos, and hosting legendary parties where he was always the ultimate host. To his children’s friends growing up, "Big Tom" was a favorite—always welcoming, funny, and a great friend to all. Tom was also an avid gamer, an active golfer, a loyal fan of the San Francisco 49ers, and a man who loved tinkering with cars and going on motorcycle rides. He was a frequent visitor to the casino, where he always seemed to find a way to cash in on Keno.

Tom had a deep love for nature, camping, and being outdoors. An adventurous spirit, he sought out the greatest hikes wherever he traveled, exploring trails from the lush volcanic ridges of Hawaii to the breathtaking landscapes of Italy.

Professionally, Tom dedicated over 30 years to the wastewater industry, where he was exceptionally well-respected. Throughout his career, he won prestigious awards for every single plant he worked at. Known for his leadership and generosity, Tom took great pride in mentoring and training countless employees to help them advance to the next certification levels. His expertise was so highly regarded that he was even invited to teach industry classes in Washington, D.C.

Above all else, Tom’s greatest masterpiece was his family. He shared a beautiful, inspiring 50 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Cecelia Foley. As a father, he was fiercely supportive, never missing an after-school event, whether it was a choir performance, a play, a dance showcase, a wrestling match, a football game, or a band competition. His warmth extended across the entire family tree, earning him the deep love and admiration of all of his in-laws, who loved him like one of their own.

His legacy of love lives on through his surviving family: his devoted wife, Cecelia; his daughter, Trina Vasquez, and her husband, Brian; his son, Thomas Foley, and his wife, Mariena; and his beloved grandchildren, Gabriel, Trey, Shyla, Carmella, and Takeo, who brought immense pride to his life. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who knew him as a truly great uncle.

While the needle has dropped on his final track, the music Tom shared with the world will play on forever in the hearts of those who loved him.