Thomas J. Mahoney, Jr.

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Celebrating the life of
Thomas J. Mahoney, Jr.August 29, 1936 - January 20, 2017

SAVANNAH - Thomas Joseph Mahoney, Jr., 80, died peacefully at home surrounded by his family on January 20, 2017. He was born in Savannah on August 29, 1936 and was the son of Thomas J. and Ruth (Burney) Mahoney, both of whom predeceased him.

He is survived by his wife Judy of 54 years, their four children, Tom Mahoney III (Molly), Kathleen Taylor (Michael), Tim Mahoney (Karen), and Megan Mahoney (friend Kevin O’Neil), and his six grandchildren, Thomas, Daniel and Brendan Mahoney, Matthew Mahoney Taylor, and twins Cooper and Patrick Mahoney. He is also survived by his brother, Roland Mahoney (Sandra), brother-in-law Vilas “Pete” Peters, first cousins, Hugh Coleman (Angela), Pat Little, Jeanne Trapani (Luigi), nephew “Buddy” Mahoney, nieces Laurie Barre (Matt), Claire Neal (John), Kim and Kathy Peters, and grand-nieces and nephew Madison and Chandler Barre, Ashlee Vice (Ricky/Ryker) and Alex Neal. Hugh was much like a brother together with his wife Angela, daughter Alicia Harvey and her children Victoria and Kassie. He was predeceased by his sister-in-law Jan Peters, niece Debbie Mahoney and grand-nephew Michael Douglas. Tom was a devoted husband, father and grandfather and always received a special thrill from the many accomplishments of his children, grandchildren, nephews and nieces.

He graduated in 1954 from Benedictine and received his Bachelors Degree from the University of South Carolina in 1958 and his Juris Doctorate from its School of Law in 1960. While at Carolina, he was President of Phi Sigma Kappa Social Fraternity, representative to the Inter-Fraternity Council, a two-time letterman on the State Champion Golf Team and Chief Justice of Pinckney Chapter of Phi Alpha Delta Legal Fraternity. In 2004, he was inducted into the BC Wall of Honor which recognizes accomplishments of Benedictine alumni in college athletics.

Following graduation from law school, Tom served as a Special Agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation serving in Chicago, Illinois and Baltimore, Maryland. While in Chicago, he met and married Judy, who was also employed by the F.B.I. He resigned from the F.B.I. and began his private practice of law in 1962 with the then firm of Pierce, Ranitz and Lee. At the time of his death, he was the senior member of the law firm of Mahoney & Cole, P.C. He was a member of the State Bars of Georgia and South Carolina and was admitted to practice in all courts in both states and also the Federal District and Appellate Courts in both states. He was also admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court.

He served his community in many ways including Sertoma Club President, March of Dimes Campaign Director, Benedictine Military School Board of Advisors, Benedictine Athletic Association President, Park Place Outreach Advisory Board, The Landings Association President, volunteer firefighter, Family Counseling Center Board, Savannah Golf Association President, and member of the Police Emerald Society. He was currently serving as President of Sheraton Vistana Board of Directors and Counsel for the Southside Fire Department.

In the legal profession, Tom served as Assistant City Attorney for Savannah, Assistant City Attorney and Judge of the City of Port Wentworth, Judge and City Attorney for Tybee Island, and Chatham County Attorney. Upon completion of his service as County Attorney, County Police Chief Tom Sprague presented Tom with an Honorary Chief Badge. This was very meaningful to him as his father served over 40 years on the County Police, retiring as Chief.

He served as President of the Savannah Bar Association in 1987-1988. In 1987, he was appointed by the Attorney General of Georgia as a Special Assistant Attorney General of the State of Georgia and represented the Georgia Ports Authority for 30 years. As counsel for the Georgia Ports Authority, he was honored to have played a part in the rapid and extensive growth of this important economic engine of Georgia. He served at the pleasure of five Governors and four Attorneys General. Tom furnished legal assistance for many Port projects involving acquisition and development of land, environmental matters, acquisition of state of the art equipment and machinery, the deepening of the Savannah River, contracts and leases. In this representation, Tom was blessed to serve under the leadership of four Executive Directors who possessed many talents and a great vision. He also served on the legal committee of the international American Association of Port Authorities. In his capacity as a Special Assistant Attorney General, he represented the Georgia Department of Transportation since 1999. He was a life member of the Association County Commissioners of Georgia. He was also honored to serve as the General Counsel for The Landings Association for over twenty five years.

Tom loved his Irish heritage and was Secretary, then was Chairman of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee for two years, served as President of the Sinn Fein Society, President of The Irish Heritage Society and was a member of The Hibernian Society and the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick. He was recognized in 2008 by Irish America Magazine as one of the top 100 lawyers of Irish Descent in the United States. He was also a member of the Board of Advisors for the Center for Irish Studies at Georgia Southern University.

Tom was blessed over the years with his law partners, support staff and especially his long time assistant Debbie Lightfoot. His law practice was made much easier by their assistance for which he was grateful. He was especially blessed by having his and Judy’s first born child, Tom III, as a law partner for many years.

Tom was named as the recipient in 1971 of the Desbouillon’s Trophy as a result of his selection as “The Outstanding Young Man of the Year” in Savannah for his civic and charitable contributions to the community in over thirty organizations. In 1990, Tom received the Col. Stephen S. Koszewski Award from Benedictine which recognizes an alumnus of the School who has displayed loyalty, service and dedication to BC. In 1995, he was the unanimous selection as The Grand Marshal of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. In 2009, he was the recipient of the St. Thomas More Award from the Catholic Lawyers Guild of the Diocese of Savannah for his service to the community and to the Church. Tom was a long time member of St. James Catholic Church and served as a Lector, former President of the School Board, and former Vice President of the Parish Council. In 2014, Tom was a recipient of the Bishop Gartland Award for service to the Diocese of Savannah and to his Parish.

He was a charter member of Holy Family Council No. 5588 of the Knights of Columbus and served in every elected capacity including the Office of Grand Knight in 1971-72. He was also a Fourth Degree Knight and was a Past Faithful Navigator (President) of the Immaculate Conception General Assembly.

Tom was an avid golfer from the age of 12, playing competitively in his younger days and had been a member of The Landings Club since 1974.

Visitation will be Monday, January 23 at St. James Catholic Church from 5:00-7:00 pm with a Rosary at 6:30 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. James on Tuesday, January 24 at 10:00 am. Pallbearers will be grandsons Thomas, Daniel and Brendan Mahoney, nephew Roland “Buddy” Mahoney, and family friends Kevin O’Neil and Tim Blanco. Honorary Pallbearers will be members of The Hibernian Society, the Georgia Bar Association, the Sinn Fein Society and Past Grand Marshals of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The Fourth Degree, Knights of Columbus will supply an Honor Guard.

Remembrances may be made to Benedictine Military School, St. Vincent’s Academy, St. James Church, The Hibernian Society Foundation or Hospice Savannah.

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SHARE YOUR CONDOLENCES

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GUEST BOOK

My condolences to Mr. Mahoney's family, and I must say that through my interactions with him as a younger member of the Savannah Bar and the Parade Committee, he was always seemed like the most respected guy in the room. He will be missed.

- Denton Hill, Valdosta, GA

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Mahoney family. My apologies for not attending the services as I am out of town. Mr. Mahoney was a gentleman. I will not forget the respect and caring attitude he had for my mother. His letters for my son, I still have saved. Savannah will miss this man. Again our thoughts and prayers are with everyone during this difficult time.

- Anne and James Byerly , Savannah, GA

Tommy, I was so sorry to hear about your dad. I try to keep up with happenings in Savannah, but since moving to Athens in 2015, it doesn't always happen. Your dad was so good to me and such a kind and loving person. He will certainly be missed. Please give my best to your family.

- Nora Joslyn, Athens, GA

Dear Mrs. Taylor, You are I my thoughts and prayers.

- Linda Benett, Savannah, Ga

He was a great man...had a distinguished professional career and loved his family....my thoughts and prayers are with you Judy and your whole family...we will miss him..Rabbi

- Richard M Geriner Sr, Savannah, GA

He was and outstanding man. A credit to Savannah to Benedictine & the Irish community . Bill & Odette White. Savannah Ga.

- William & Odette White, Savannah, Ga.

With deepest sympathy and prayers for the family

- James and Connie Deal, Savannah, GA

I would like to express my deepest condolences for your loss, it's never easy going through the passing of a loved one. You might take comfort in God's promise found at Revelation 21:4 which says God "will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.” This scripture gave me hope when I experienced loss, I hope it can do the same for your family. May the memories you have help you endure this difficult time.

- Jae Mckenzie , Savannah , GA

Tim and Karen, We are sending our sincere condolences to you and your family on your loss of your father. We will keep you in our prayers as we know that your dad is at peace.

- Fred, Mary, Scott, and Lindsay Buck, Savannah, Ga.

You are in my thoughts and prayers. My deepest condolences to you and your family.

- Erica Kersey, Savannah, GA

As a fellow board member at the Vistana Resort, I just want to extend my warmest sympathy to Judy and Tom's entire family. What an accomplished and yet, extremely kind, man. His wisdom and genuineness will be missed. God bless. Nancy Nish Kemp

- Nancy Nish Kemp, Bethel, AK

Judy, I would like to offer you my condolences relative to Tom's passing. I feel extremely fortunate to have known Tom. He was a wonderful gentleman who I am admired and respected greatly. God bless him.

- Michael Lesick, Aiken, SC

I had the distinct pleasure of sharing a brief portion of my life as a trial lawyer with Tom Mahoney as a most formidable opponent and as co-counsel regarding litigation in both Savannah and Beaufort. He was one of the most competent attorneys both in immediately grasping the important issues and more importantly the most justiciable result of the cases we shared. I feel honored to have known him and to have shared time with him in courtrooms both in Savanah and Beaufort. They don't make lawyers like him any more. A. Parker Barnes,Jr. Beaufort S.C. Jan 23 2017.

- Parker Barnes, Beaufort,South Carolina,

To the Mahoney Family ,i had the honor of knowing Mr Mahoney for many years.he was a true gentleman and a great human being.he had a life that movies are made of and will be missed by so many .i played golf with him many times and was a excellent golfer.my prayers go out to his family and may God bless him .

- Mike Cohen, savannah, ga

Sending prayers to the Mahoney family.

- Chris Connolly, Richmond Hill ,

Our love thoughts and prayers to Judy, Kathleen, Tom, Tim , Megan and all the Mahoney family for loss of Tom. He was a beautiful and sincere man. May Gods love and peace shelter you st this time. He will be greatly missed. Please let others be there for you to lean on . God Bless Bill and Michele Young

- Mr. and Mrs Bill Young, Savannah , Ga

To the Mahoney Family. Polly and I are praying for comfort and understanding for you all in the days ahead. With deepest sympathy.

- Steve Stramm, Savannah, GA

Mrs. Mahoney and Family: Mr. Mahoney was one of the best bosses I've ever had the pleasure of working with. He was a true Southern Gentleman. We had some good times at Oglethorpe Avenue, and I will miss him. Please know that all of you are in my thoughts and prayers. Take care of yourselves, and may God continue to bless you. Love you!

- Rachel and Ronald Beckworth, Ellabell, GA

To the Mahoney Family We were class mates from the first grade at Bss through Benedictine. He will surely be missed. God Bless Him and His Family

- Corrie and Geraldine Williams, Savannah ., Ga.

A great guy and true gentleman. I never heard a bad thing about Tom from anyone. He will be missed.

- Cliff Berger, Lexington,KY & Savannah, GA

You are in my thoughts and prayers. My deepest condolences to you and your family. Sincerely, Olga Nordenhaug

- Olga Nordenhaug, Savannah, GA

A Truly Great Man! I will always be grateful for the friendship that He extended to my father John W Stephens Jr. May God grant you peace in this difficult time! You will be in my thoughts and prayers.

- Liz Stephens Harn, Savannah, Ga

So sorry for you loss. May your warmest memories help bring you comfort.

- Johnny and Angela Southerland, Savannah, GA

Our deepest and most sincere condolences to Tom's family. Tom will certainly be missed by all, as he was the true Southern Gentleman. May he rest in peace, and may we cherish the memories.

- Tim Cook, Savannah, Ga

My condolences go out to you and Family. Keeping you and Family in my prayers. Much love

- Karen Taylor , Savannah , Ga.

Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time. With prayers,

- Caroline Hankins, Thunderbolt, GA

May your family find comfort in each other and the memories of your loved one.

- Ja'Net Nevels, Savannah, Georgia

My deepest condolences to you and your family during this time. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.

- Mary Beth Whitecotton, Savannah, Ga

Our family offers our deepest love and sympathy to you and your family at this time. Love you Lorraine Patterson and family.

- Lorraine Patterson, Savannah, GA

My deepest sympathies and all of my prayers go out to you and your family.

- Jacqueline Wade and family, Savannah,

Mrs. Taylor I'm praying that God continues to comfort you and your family. Please tell MOM her friend "Principal" said hello. Also tell my friend "Birdie" to take care of you.

- T. Haynes, ,

Mrs. Taylor and family, Our sincere sadness and condolences for your loss. May you feel comforted by family and friends during this difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

- Susan Davis and family, Savannah, GA

Dearest Judy and family.......heaven has claimed a true and Godly soul.....Tom was the epitome of a real gentleman and a class act! We have treasured yours and his friendship for many, many years. He will be missed terribly! We are praying for you all and send our love. Carol and Mike

- Kilpatrick, Savannah,, Ga

So sad to have this wonderful person pass. We worked closely when I was Secretary and VP of the Landings Association and then for a few more years as his sage advice helped TLA pass revised covenants. This decade long effort was one small example of how he made a difference. Really not so small as it has ensured a quality of life at the Landings in this time of changing values. Rest in Peace Tom, you are missed by many, many people.

- Chuck Beck, Savannah,

My deepest condolences to the family for your loss.

- Bernice McCall , Savannah , GA

My condolences to the Mahoney family. May the Lord put peace in your soul that Mr. Mahoney is pain free. Prayers for all and let his spirit live long amongst us all. God Bless!!!

- Melissa Miranda and Family, Guyton , Ga

Mrs. Taylor, May our Lord bless and comfort you and your family during this time of grief. Please accept my sincere condolences.

- Avis Myles, Savannah, GA

So sorry to hear of your loss Mrs. Taylor. We will continue to keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers!

- Tiffany and Tom Leighty, Pooler, GA

Mrs. Taylor my prayer is for you and your family during this time of bereavement that God will give you peace and comfort knowing your dad is at rest now.

- Linda Green, Savannah, GA

To let you know that thoughts of our deepest sympathy are with you and your family.

- Wendy Thompson and family, Rincon, GA

Mrs. Taylor- I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your dad. I will be praying for you and your entire family!

- Kerena Ferreira, Guyton, Ga

Thoughts and prayers for the family.

- Patty Hadley, Savannah, Ga

We send our deepest condolences. May God keep you in his loving arms of comfort.

- Sherice Adams and family, Bluffton, Sc

I only knew Tom from his work with The Landings Association. I always appreciated his good will and good advice.

- John Duren, Savannah, GA

When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure. May your memories give you peace and comfort, gone from your sight, but never from your hearts. May you be comforted by the outpouring of love surrounding you.

- Cheryl Woodson, Savannah , Ga

We are so saddened to hear of Mr. Mahoney's passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family. Sincerely, Sarah and Tim Fogarty

- Sarah Fogarty, Savannah, Ga

Judy & family, we are truly disheartened to learn of Tom's passing. You have always been like an extended family to us and Tom will be sadly missed. The Mahoney family is in our prayers especially at this difficult time; may Tom's soul rest in peace. Warmest regards. Gerald & Delores Fleming

- Gerald Fleming, Statesboro, GA

Judy and family, sorry to see Tom pass. Too bad the world is not full of good men like him. He will rest in peace and he is in heaven. I will pray for your family.

- O.C.WELCH III, SAVANNAH, GA

Dear Judy and Family, We are so sad to hear of Tom's passing, he was a genuinely fine man, loved by all who had the privilege of meeting him. We will keep all of you in our prayers.

- Mr. and Mrs Louis Molella, Savannah, Ga.

May God Bless your Soul and hold you in His hand. May he also see your family in this difficult time.

- Mike Kenny, Savannah, Ga

Sorry to see that Tom has away. What a great guy. I will miss seeing and talking with him. May he Rest In Peace.

- Bob White, Greensboro , Ga

Mr. Mahoney was very good man. He was so kind and very nice. Your family is in my prayers!

- Sarah Lightfoot Hodges , Savannah , GA

We send our sincere condolences to the whole Mahoney family. Mr. Mahoney was always a class act. I loved to just be around him. You are all in our prayers. His faith was so strong, we know he is in a better place. May God bless you all.

- Davis, Savannah, Ga