Canton - Longtime resident Tom Fay died peacefully on May 10, 2026, at age 79, under the compassionate care of dedicated staff at United Helpers in Canton. In addition to his beloved wife, Pam; brother, Ted; daughters Tawnya (Switzer) and Melinda (Arist); and cherished grandchildren Marcel, Pierce, Abby, and Ryan; countless student-athletes, extended family, and friends and colleagues have had their lives enriched and shaped by Tom’s example and encouragement. He was irreplaceable and will be forever in our hearts.

During a legendary 40+ year career at St. Lawrence University, “T. Fay” wore many, many hats, including instructor of elementary phys ed majors, head baseball coach, defensive coordinator for the football team, assistant basketball coach, summer sports camps director, and department chair. He was trusted, a leader people naturally turned to—a wise and steady presence who listened without judgment, offering gentle advice and perspective. Above all, he was a devoted husband, father, and “Papa.” Calm, unselfish, fun, and endlessly supportive, T. Fay was always ready for the next adventure, especially a travel, beach, or golf adventure.

Born on September 6, 1946, in Mooers, New York, Tom grew up with his brother, Ted, in Moravia, New York, where their parents, Theodore and Elizabeth Bernath Fay, instilled a strong work ethic and character values. Neighborhood kids called the family backyard “T. Fay Field,” because so many of them gathered there for pick-up games of all kinds. It is fitting, now and into the future that T. Fay Field is also a reality at SLU, a forever legacy of his impact and values.

A celebration of life will be held at 10 a.m. on June 13th, at Gunnison Chapel, followed by a tailgate gathering near Tom Fay Field. Bring sneakers for a friendly game of wiffle ball, and visit https://www.mykeeper.com/TomFay/ to get details, RSVP, and share memories. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to support SLU athletics or a local youth sports program, and to keep these “T. Fayisms” in your pocket.

1. Never get into a pissing contest with a skunk.

2. Do your very best. On every “field” you play on.

3. Keep an eraser on your pencil. Forgive. Get it right.

4. Be prepared, but be flexible. There will be weather.

5. Catch up—preferably while playing catch—with people you love, and people who need

you in their lives. Every chance you get.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by visiting Tom’s memorial page at www.olearyfuneralservice.com.