Thomas J. Porter
Southampton native Thomas J. Porter of St. Augustine, Florida, died on January 19 at the Bailey Family Center for Caring, surrounded by his family. He was 69.
Born and raised in Southampton, he was a 1964 graduate of Harvard University and lived most of his life in Bellport, and had been a seasonal resident of St. Augustine since 2006. He worked for the Suffolk County Probation Department for 37 years, retiring as deputy director of the department in 2009.
A gifted athlete, Mr. Porter competed in football, baseball and wrestling in his school years, and golf and softball as an adult. He was a devoted husband and father of seven children and enjoyed spending time with his family. He was a master bridge player, enjoyed sailing, and loved his dogs. At one time, he served as president of the Suffolk County Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association.
Mr. Porter is survived by his wife of 48 years, Georgiana Porter of St. Augustine; three sons, Tommy Porter and wife Lauren, Matthew Porter and wife Jill, and Michael Porter and wife Clarise, all of Bellport; two daughters, Kelly Hirsch and husband Rich of Albany, Maura Kuehl and husband Michael of Bellport; and six grandchildren, Meagan, Travis, Jack, Giana, Brenna and MacKenzie. He was predeceased by a son, Sean, and a daughter, Kimberly Ann.
Funeral services were private. Memorial donations may be made to a local humane society, or to SAFE of St. Augustine, 6101 A1A South #101, St. Augustine, Florida 32080.
St. Johns Family Funeral Home in St. Augustine handled the funeral arrangements.
on Jan 25, 2013