Thomas "Tom" W. Jennings

Tom Jennings, age 85, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026. Despite a long decline into dementia, he remained content during the last years of his life. 

Tom was born to Delbert and Marla,(Wharf), Jennings on May 31,1940, grew up on the East Side of Toledo and graduated from Waite High School and the University of Toledo. He married Karen Cadaret in 1961 and enjoyed 64 years of marriage with her by his side. He is survived by wife, Karen and his children Lisa, (Dave), Alleman, Matt, (Jennifer), Jennings and Marc, (Bonnie), Jennings, his grandchildren, Emily, (Kevin), Steinman, Chris, (Emily), Alleman, Lindsey, (Kevin), Klein, Morgan, (Joey), Fodor, Camryn Jennings, Tyler Jennings, Garrett Jennings and Olivia Jennings. He is also survived by his 6 great grandchildren, Nathan and Cody Steinman, Nora and Jack Alleman, and Kennedy and Macy Fodor. 

Tom dedicated his life to his career in education and to travel with Karen. He taught History at Sylvania Burnham and at Bowsher High School. After receiving his Master’s in Educational Administration he was the principal of Genoa High School, (1970-72), Anthony Wayne High School, (1972-83) and Whitmer High School, (1983-96). He looked back most fondly at his time spent at Anthony Wayne and considered himself a General at heart.

Tom and Karen traveled extensively achieving their goal of visiting all 50 states in addition to many provinces in Canada and countries in Europe. Despite all of the faraway travel they embarked on, he cherished most the memories of time spent on family vacations to the Outer Banks of North Carolina. 

When at home Tom enjoyed gardening, listening to his extensive CD collection, watching OSU football, attending University of Toledo football and basketball games and gathering with friends and family. He is a member of Community of Christ Lutheran Church in Whitehouse. 

Tom’s family is deeply indebted to the staff at the Lakes of Monclova for their exceptional care for Tom over the last four and a half years. 

Visitation will be at Community of Christ Lutheran Church in Whitehouse, Ohio on Friday, May 22 from 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. with a Memorial Service following at 12:00 p.m. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Alzheimer’s Association and designate your contribution for research only.