Thomas Fairbrother Jr., 81

MEREDITH — Thomas “Tom” Fairbrother Jr., 81, passed away peacefully at home on June 13, 2025.

Tom was born on Aug. 2, 1943, in Medway, Massachusetts, the son of the late Thomas Fairbrother Sr. and Florence (Hyson) Fairbrother. He remained in the area of Medway, owning and operating several businesses for many years before moving full-time to Meredith, in 1985, to the lake house that had long been a treasured weekend and summer retreat for his family.

Tom took great pride in and genuinely enjoyed serving his community as a longtime member and past president of the Meredith Rotary Club. He co-owned and operated Lakeside Plumbing & Heating with his son Brian until his retirement. Known for his incredible work ethic, Tom was the kind of person who never hesitated to roll up his sleeves and help — whether for a customer, neighbor or friend.

He will be remembered for his storytelling, his lifelong love of cars, jet skiing, snowmobiling, and his fondness for the Hallmark Channel — where we’d often catch him discreetly wiping away a tear while insisting that he was “just fine.” He loved helping people in big and small ways and always put family first. He also enjoyed spending time at the Pemigewasset Valley Fish and Game Club, where he took part in skeet and pistol shooting.

Tom absolutely adored his grandchildren and supported each one with gentle encouragement, always nudging them to follow their own unique paths. He shared his time, wisdom, and stories freely, creating deep and lasting bonds across generations.

Every summer, Tom and Marsha opened their hearts and home at the lake, welcoming friends and family with open arms. The lake house became a cherished gathering place filled with laughter, stories, and lasting memories. Children and friends spent countless days there, making it a true haven of love, belonging, and connection.

He brought laughter, warmth, and wisdom to every conversation, and his unique blend of grit and heart left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. From the dining room table, the porch, or the beach, Tom was always up for conversation.

Tom is survived by his wife, Marsha Novia Fairbrother; children Naomi and her husband John Bullwinkle of Nokesville, Virginia, Martha Fairbrother of Meredith, John Sullivan of Meredith, Brian Sullivan and his wife Amy of Meredith, and Suzanne Snow of Portsmouth; sisters Linda Matondi of Sturbridge, Massachusetts, Swaran Kalsa of Captain Cook, Hawaii, and Carole Kakoczky of Quebec, Canada. He also leaves behind several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and notable many lifelong dear friends. In addition to his parents, Tom is predeceased by his son, Thomas Fairbrother III, brother Charles William Fairbrother, and sisters Jean Cormier and Suzanne Fairbrother.

Tom faced every challenge with strength and determination, and his resilience was an inspiration to all who knew him. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the nurses and doctors at the oncology department at Speare Memorial Hospital and to the team at Quality Care Home Health & Hospice of Center Harbor, whose compassion and support provided comfort and peace for Tom.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date.

For those who wish, memorial donations can be made in Thomas’ name to the Meredith Food Pantry, New Hampshire Food Bank, 700 E. Industrial Park Drive, Manchester, NH 03109.

Wilkinson-Beane-Simoneau-Paquette Funeral Home & Cremation Services/603Cremations.com, 164 Pleasant St., Laconia, is assisting the family with arrangements. For more information and to view an online memorial, visit wilkinsonbeane.com.