Thomas "Tom" Fay M'70

Dear Laurentian Community,

I write today to share the sad news that Thomas “Tom” Fay M’70, longtime coach, educator, and former chair of the Department of Physical Education and Athletics at St. Lawrence University, passed away peacefully on May 10 at the age of 79.

For more than four decades, Tom played a defining role in the lives of St. Lawrence students and student-athletes. During his distinguished career at the University, he served in many capacities, including instructor of elementary physical education majors, head baseball coach, assistant basketball coach, defensive coordinator for the football team, director of summer sports camps, and department chair. Across every role, he was known for his steady leadership, thoughtful mentorship, and unwavering support of students and colleagues alike.

Tom joined St. Lawrence in 1972 as head baseball coach and assistant football coach. Over 37 seasons leading the Saints baseball program, he helped elevate the sport at St. Lawrence, expanding the schedule, establishing annual spring training trips to Florida, and building the program into a respected presence within Division III athletics. His teams won multiple conference championships spanning the ICAC, UCAA, and Liberty League eras, and he earned numerous Coach of the Year honors along the way. His 522 career victories stand as a testament not only to competitive success, but to the consistency, care, and dedication he brought to coaching and teaching.

Tom’s influence extended well beyond St. Lawrence through his leadership in physical education and youth fitness initiatives across New York State. After earning his Ed.D. from Boston University, he served on Governor Mario Cuomo’s Council for Lifetime Health, Fitness & Sports and later chaired the development of the New York State Education Department’s Learning Standards for K–12 Health and Physical Education. He also helped lead statewide professional development workshops for educators through the BOCES network.

Born on September 6, 1946, Tom was raised in Moravia, New York alongside his brother, Ted, by parents Theodore and Elizabeth Bernath Fay. Friends and neighbors often gathered for games in the family backyard, affectionately known as “T. Fay Field,” an early reflection of the love of sports, community, and mentorship that would define so much of Tom’s life and career. Today, Tom Fay Field at St. Lawrence stands as a lasting tribute to his impact on generations of Laurentians.

Beyond athletics, Tom was deeply devoted to his family and friends. He was known for his calm presence, generous spirit, and love of travel, golf, and time spent with those closest to him. Former students and colleagues alike remember him as someone who listened carefully, offered thoughtful guidance, and made people feel supported and valued.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Pam Sherburne ’76; his brother, Ted; daughters, Tawnya (Switzer) and Melinda (Arist); grandchildren, Marcel, Pierce, Abby, and Ryan; and many extended family members, friends, former students, and colleagues.

Tom’s leadership, mentorship, and dedication to St. Lawrence will remain an enduring part of the University community.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 13, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Gunnison Memorial Chapel, followed by a casual gathering at Tom Fay Field. Guests are encouraged to bring sneakers for a friendly game of wiffle ball.

Please join us in honoring Tom’s life by sharing your memories of him on the St. Lawrence University website. You can read the remembrances of others here.

Sincerely,
Kate Morris