Thomas Edward Houlihan

On Tuesday, June 10, 2025, our beloved father, Thomas E. Houlihan, peacefully took his final breath at Community Hospice in Jacksonville, FL. At his side during his transition were his children, Sarah and Tom, and his grandchildren, Ed and Kam. Tom was born on February 14, 1939, in New Albin, Iowa, the eldest of three children to Earl and Gertrude Houlihan.

 After graduating from Logan High School in La Crosse, WI, Tom joined the U.S. Army and was stationed in Anchorage, Alaska. Following his military service, Tom began working and frequently traveled between La Crosse and Chicago, IL. It was in Chicago that he met Gail Eldred. After just five dates, they knew they had found something special and decided to marry.

Tom and Gail made their home in Chicago, where their first child, Erin Kathleen, was born. Shortly after, they moved to Minneapolis, MN, where their son, Thomas Edward II, joined the family. Seeking to be closer to loved ones and new job opportunities, they eventually settled in Tom’s hometown of La Crosse, where their youngest, Sarah Elizabeth, was born. Tom’s career later took the family to South Bend, IN, and then to Grand Rapids, MI.

Tom had a true zest for life and a spirit of adventure. He earned his pilot's license after leaving the Army, and over the years participated in triathlons, 5K and 10K races, skydiving, and even hang gliding.

In retirement, Tom and Gail moved to the Jacksonville, FL area to be near their daughter Sarah. They embraced the Florida lifestyle, spending time golfing, playing cards, enjoying the beach, and connecting with new friends. Tom never met a stranger-he could strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere.

Tom was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 63 years, Gail. He is survived by his children, Erin Harper (Robin), Thomas Houlihan II, and Sarah Firpo; grandchildren, Joseph Harper (Ashley), Thomas Houlihan III, and Kamptyn Firpo; two cherished great-grandchildren, Quinn and Thomas Houlihan IV and a host of other family members and friends.

We are deeply grateful for the love, support, and prayers that have surrounded us and helped bring peace to his passing.

Aaron and Burney Bivens Funeral Home, 529 Kingsley Avenue, Orange Park, FL  32073, (904) 264-1233, is serving the family.

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