Thomas F. Denniston

Thomas Farrell Denniston, known to his loved ones as “Tom,” passed away on February 10, 2024, at the age of 40 after treatment and complications from a suspected brain tumor. He died at his ranch in George West, Texas, surrounded by his family. Tom was born on July 22, 1983, in Greenwich, Connecticut. He was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, uncle, friend, and citizen, known for his exceptional commitment and unwavering integrity.

Tom was a true gentleman, always striving for excellence in everything he did. He had a sharp mind and a great sense of humor, bringing laughter and joy to those around him. He believed in the importance of honesty and was always willing to listen, respect, and consider other people's opinions, even if they differed from his own. Tom's philosophy of "less is more" guided him in all aspects of his life, ensuring that he never compromised on quality.

He will be deeply missed by his loving wife, Sue; and his cherished children, Thomas Farrell Denniston, Jr. "T" (11), Penelope Ciffone Denniston (8), and Fritz MacGregor Denniston (5). Tom was a dedicated family man, and his presence in their lives will be irreplaceable.

Tom is preceded in death by his father-in-law, Richard Hilton (Connie), as well as his paternal grandparents, Philip L. Denniston and Georgiana Gilliland Denniston, and his maternal grandparents, Thomas J. Whelan and Lillian Ciffone Whelan; and by his uncle “Joey” Joseph F. Whelan.

In terms of education, Tom attended Riverside School in Greenwich, CT, and later Valley Forge Military Academy in Wayne, Pennsylvania. He completed his high school education at Incarnate Word Academy and Ray High School in Corpus Christi, TX. Tom furthered his studies at Texas Tech University, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree.

Tom met his future wife, Susan Catherine Hilton, during his time at Texas Tech. A group of friends gathered at his ranch, Esperanza, one weekend and introduced him to Sue, who was at UTSA at the time.  From the moment they met, Tom seemed to know that Sue was the girl for him. They married on October 2, 2010, at St. George Catholic Church in George West and they dug deep roots in the community there.   

Tom was an accomplished Account Executive at ODG by MCG, a division of Hearst Corporation. About three years ago, he joined as Investor/Part Owner/Account Executive in his parents' (Pat & Phil Denniston) latest startup company, Denniston Data Inc. He represented the company well at trade shows, speaking engagements, and public hearings, and was highly valued by the company and his customers. 

Tom was a man for all seasons. He enjoyed camping with his family and devoted brother-in-law, David, snowboarding in Angel Fire, sailing in Corpus Christi Bay, skeet shooting, hunting, learning golf with his son, T, pumpkin carving, building tree houses, barbecues, picnics, and setting off fireworks on the 4^th of July or New Year’s Eve! If he was outdoors with his family, Tom was a happy man. 

In addition to his beloved wife and children, Tom leaves behind and is already deeply missed by his parents; siblings, Daphne (James) Worrall, Philip (Ashley) Denniston, and Carrie (Hunter) Whitehead; nieces and nephews, Mia, Ryder, Luke, Liza, River and Finn; in-laws; and countless good friends and relatives. 

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during the visitation on Sunday, February 18, 2024, at St. George Catholic Church, 304 Crockett Street, George West, TX, from 5 to 7 p.m., followed by a Rosary recitation.

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated held on Monday, February 19, at 10 a.m. at St. George Catholic Church, followed by burial at St. George Cemetery. Pallbearers will be David Hilton, Hunter Whitehead, Shahed Ghoghawala, David Lovell, Heath Lovell and Ted Roberts.

A reception will be held at St. George Parish Hall following the burial.

Tom's legacy will live on through the memories and values he imparted to those who had the privilege of knowing him. He will always be remembered as an exceptional individual who touched the lives of many.