Obituary of Thomas Francis Chestnut

Thomas Francis Chestnut (Tom), age 73 of Town Bank, North Cape May, NJ, formerly of South West Philadelphia. Employed as a CDL Instructor for the City of Philadelphia for 27 years. Tom served in the U.S Army during Vietnam War. He was very proud of his Country! He was a family man whom loved his Wife, Kids, and Grandkids dearly! Tom and his wife Eleanor raised their boys in South West Philadelphia where they were both actively involved with Good Shepherd School and West Catholic High School before moving fully to Cape May NJ. Tom was an old school Romantic, a true gentleman, Tom and Eleanor's relationship was one many did envy. He would always treat her as if they were on their first date, give her flowers, and open the door for her. They enjoyed traveling together and with friends. Over recent years they became snow birds enjoying winter's with friends in Florida. He loved a good cigar and a shot of Jameson. He loved The Eagles and was a Philadelphia Sports Enthusiast. Enjoyed attending his grandkids sporting events. Nothing brought him more joy than waiting for the grandkids to come to shore so they could jump in the pool with him and spoil them endlessly. Involved with Disabled Vets DAV chapter 44, 4th Degree Knights of Columbus, Stella Maris Home Association, American Legion Wildwood NJ, Elks Lodge 2839, Moose Lodge Erma, life time member of the VFW. Mentor to many youths of McCreesh playground. West Catholic Fathers club, 2018 James Vance Spirt of Southwest Philly award. He was easily persuaded and dressed as various characters over the years for school and holiday events. Playing Mr. & Mrs. Claus, Good Shepherd Ram Mascot, Cape May's Henry Hudson, Raggety Ann's Andy, Kermit the Frog. Energizer Bunny, his favorite Disney character was Figment. Love of Bacon, Known for his sense of humor, he was "The Ultimate Jokester". He got a kick out of asking the question "How did I get so good looking", Tom was the biggest kid in the room. If the kids were all railed up he would most likely be the culprit. While small in stature, his heart was huge, and his personality was larger than life! He loved to entertain down the shore, where everyone was welcome! Always Lots of Laughing, singing, dancing, story telling, then of course to the Bay to watch the best sunsets in the world right at the end of his street! Tom will be greatly missed by all. He was a loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother, and uncle. A true friend, wonderful neighbor, and Father figure to many! Son of the late Walter & Margaret (Riddle) Chestnut. Predeceased by his son Joseph Chestnut, Sister Cassie O'Flynn, Mother in law Nancy Di Orio. Tom is survived by his wife of 52 years Eleanor Chestnut (nee Hogg), Sons: Thomas Chestnut of Springfield, PA., and Scott Chestnut (Jennifer) of Aston, PA. Proud Grandfather of: TJ, Lauren, Tori, Daniel, Aiden, & Lainey Chestnut. Sister Peggy Hoey, Brother Billy Reilly, Sister Patty Buchanan. Many Nieces and Nephews, lifelong Friends, Neighbors, and extended family. Services for Thomas will be held at 11am on Thursday January 14, 2021 at the Parish of St. John Neumann, St. John of God Church, 680 Townbank Rd., N Cape May. A second service will be held on Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at St. Francis of Assisi, Springfield, PA, with burial of cremains to follow at St. Peter and Paul Cemetery. Contributions may be made to the Disabled American Veterans DAV Chapter 44, 1010 Bayshore Road, Del Haven NJ 08251 or Stella Maris Home Association 234 Breakwater Road, Cape May NJ 088204. In lieu of tears please share a Tommy Chestnut story with family and friends to keep his memory alive! In lieu of tears please share a Tommy Chestnut story with family and friends to keep his memory alive! Condolences can be shared at www.EvoyFuneralHome.com. If you are unable to attend the services for Tom you could watch the Live Stream of St. Francis of Assisi Mass on 1/19/2020 at 11am: Viewers can access the video on the St. Francis of Assisi Facebook page: www.facebook.com/sfaspringfield Viewers will need to "like" the page to view the video. We typically go live about five minutes before the Mass begins. Those followers of St. Francis will get a notification that the video is live. I would also encourage those watching that day to share the video once the live stream begins. You can view a previous Funeral Live Stream here: https://www.facebook.com/104876760860476/videos/455300162531769