With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Thomas “Tom” Casey Sears, who departed this life on April 2nd, 2025, in Barbados. Born on July 9, 1950, in Montreal, Tom lived a life brimming with love, adventure, and an unwavering commitment to family, education, and community.
Tom was the devoted husband of Jessica (née Tambini), his beloved "Brown Eyed Girl," with whom he shared a lifetime of love, joy and adventure. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising four children—Sarah, Megan (Dave), Thomas (Jessica), and Mary—who were the pride of his life. He was also a cherished grandfather to Raphael, embracing the role with immense love and delight. Tom was also so looking forward to meeting his new granddaughter Perrin Elsie Sears, daughter of Thomas and Jessica, who arrived August 20th, 2025.
Tom's family extended beyond his home; he was the beloved brother of Kenneth (Susan), Donald (Karen), Patricia (Jack), and Colleen (Raymond). He also leaves behind many cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, neighbours, and colleagues who were touched by his wit, kindness and generosity.
His professional journey saw him excel in the world of finance, beginning with the Royal Trust and later the Royal Bank of Canada. His career took him across the globe, serving in Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, London (England), Jersey (Channel Islands), and ultimately, Barbados. His dedication and leadership left a lasting impact on those he worked with and they on him.
A passionate scholar, Tom's commitment to education was lifelong. From Cardinal Newman High School in Montreal to a BA from Loyola (Concordia University) and an MBA from the University of Toronto (Rotman), he pursued knowledge with unrelenting curiosity. His academic journey culminated in a PhD, a testament to his intellectual rigor and thirst for learning.
Beyond work and study, Tom found joy in golf, music, politics, and history. He was a proud member of Golf Canada, an active member of the Liberal Party of Canada, a member of the Royal Commonwealth society in Barbados and Ottawa and an enthusiastic Boy Scout (Queen scout) in Montreal during the 1960s. Music was a lifelong passion. Tom loved playing his drums and guitar. His impromptu jam sessions brought happiness to many and to himself.
Tom had an extraordinary ability to make people feel welcome, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him. He was irreplaceable and unforgettable, a man whose warmth and wisdom enriched the lives of those around him. His legacy of love, laughter, and learning will forever be cherished.
Rest in peace, Tom. You are so deeply loved and very missed.
Digital Guestbook
Mukesh Bhargava
Alicia C
Forever in our hearts Tom.. Barbados yacht club days won't be the same- it was honour to know you. Hugs to Jess and the family.
Robert Ganske
My wife Lyn and I are from Ottawa but we just recently met Tom in Barbados. We so enjoyed spending time with him at the yacht club. He was so friendly and so welcoming. He introduced us to some great people here in Ottawa and gave us some great advice! We will forever be grateful to him for everything he did for us. We were planning on getting together here in Ottawa. Unfortunately that will never happen. We had a short friendship but his impact on our lives will be everlasting! Thank you! We miss you immensely!
Robert Ganske
Lyn Beaudoin
Susan Kerwin-Boudreau
Dear Jess and family
Spencer and I were so saddened to hear of Tom’s sudden passing. I have known Tommy since the early days on 14th avenue in Rosemont. The Kerwin and Sears’ families were linked in so many wonderful ways! Tommy was so full of life and he is missed. Our sincere condolences go out to you and all your family. Spencer and I are in Europe and unable to attend Tom’s memorial service. We will be thinking of you on September 22 nd.
With love from Susan Kerwin and Spencer Boudreau
Jodi Gaskell
Our family was saddened to hear of Tom's passing. When we visited the family, we always knew we would have a good time and be entertained by Uncle Tom. We all enjoyed keeping track of his adventures and travels with Jess and his family and friends. Sending our love to all of our cousins.
Brian C.M. Barrett
When I first heard of Tom’s sudden passing, I was incredulous. That very morning I had seen a picture of him with Jess and friends celebrating an anniversary in Barbados. A life full and well-lived, Tom was a faithful fraternity brother (Tau Kappa Epsilon-Kappa Chi Chapter). He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. May he rest in peace. Until we meet again in the Chapter Eternal. YITB
Pat Quinn
We became friends in Barbados .... I will miss him terribly both in Barbados and here in Ottawa, he had a never ending smile, we shared a love of Politics, music and simple (and complicated) discussions. AI was the latest we especially enjoyed the discussions on the AI generated Beatles tunes! I will miss those discussions.
Rob Swystun
Though I only knew him briefly, I could tell Tom was passionate about his family, his work, and the pursuit of becoming a better person and helping those around him succeed just as he had succeeded in life. He truly did live a fascinating life and was a caring and loving human being.
Tom was an amazing human being that will live on in my memories. Not only he was willing to have a deep and helpful conversation. He connected so many people. He connected me to international thought leaders during the Pandemic through his connections. I had the honour of having him as a sounding board and in my personal board of directors! I do not think the word "No" was in his vocabulary.