Thomas A. Woodley, 78

Thomas Alan Woodley, a lifelong resident of Franklin, passed away peacefully on Feb. 9, 2025, at the age of 78. Born on Oct. 19, 1946, in Franklin, Tom spent his life dedicated to his family and the community.

A product of Franklin High School, class of 1964, Tom continued his education at the Vocational Tech School in Berlin, graduating in 1966. He attended the UNH Technology Transfer Program, becoming a Master Roads Scholar after taking several courses on road and bridge repairs and maintenance. A true jack of all trades, Tom pursued many paths and left a lasting impact in every endeavor. His professional life included serving as the director of municipal services in Franklin and as the public works director in both Henniker and Claremont. He also started RT Aggregates, LLC with his wife and worked as a Resident Project Representative on several road and bridge projects at DuBois & King, Inc.

Tom was a wonderful man and a loving husband, father and grandfather. His kindness, dedication and service left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him. He often led by example. In his younger years, he volunteered at Friday night Bingo at St. Mary’s School, coached youth sports, served two terms as a member of the Franklin City Council, sat on the city’s Planning Commission, and served as an ex-officio member of the Franklin Hospital Board of Trustees. Later in life he served on the board of directors of the NH Road Agents Association, volunteered at the Bread and Roses Soup Kitchen and made shelves for use at the Merrimack County Nursing Home.

Tom is survived by his adored wife of 58 years, Rita M. (née Robitaille) Woodley; his daughter, Tracey R. Woodley; and his son, Christopher T. Woodley (wife Darlah). He was the proud grandfather to Lydia Woodley and Samuel Woodley, who brought immense joy to his life.

Tom found happiness in life’s simple pleasures, whether it was holding hands with Rita, sharing their 62-year love story with family and friends, spending time doing woodworking, playing cards with friends and neighbors, or cherishing every moment with his beloved grandchildren, his love for his family was unmatched.

Tom was predeceased by his parents, Thomas O. Woodley and Georgia T. (Mills) Woodley, and his two sisters, Georgia Anne Coulson and Sally Rae Woodley.

The family wishes to express their sincere thanks and gratitude to Dr. Eric F. Pollack of Concord Family Medicine who provided Tom with excellent medical care for over 30 years. Dr. Pollack’s medical expertise, kindness and support meant the world to Tom.

Tom's life will be celebrated with a funeral Mass at St. Gabriel Parish in Franklin, at 10 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 21. Family, friends, and community members are invited to honor Tom’s remarkable life.

The arrangements are being handled by Smart Memorial Home, smartmemorialhome.com, who are assisting the family during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tom’s memory to the Merrimack County Nursing Home’s Edna McKenna Fund — Special Care Unit, 325 Daniel Webster Hwy, Boscawen, NH 03303.