Thomas James "Tom" Schoemann

Thomas James “Tom” Schoemann, native of Buffalo, New York and longtime Ocean Springs resident, died unexpectedly on Saturday, February 3, 2024.  

Born on November 28, 1964, Tom was a prince, the only son in a sea of sisters. Growing up, he never made a sandwich or ironed a shirt because his sisters were more than happy to take care of him. His sisters gave him all the love in their hearts and he spent the rest of his life sharing all the love he was given.

Tom exceeded most boundaries from a young age. Before graduating from Lake Shore High School, he held the title of New York state’s archery champion.  He went on to champion his time in the United States Air Force, retiring as a Master Sergeant after 21 years of service.  He championed every professional challenge with precision and care. After attaining an MBA from William Carey University, he provided expertise as Director of Program Management at S2 Global, Logistician at the Center for Logistics, Trade and Transportation at The University of Southern Mississippi, owner/ operator of Infinite 30, and had recently returned to Rapiscan Systems as Senior Program Manager.

He built a beautiful life around his most cherished love, Terri. Their doors opened wide to friends and family for every holiday, birthday, Bills game, and most weekends.  

Tom was the perfect prankster because social norms and most rules did not apply to his larger – than- life- personality and love for fun.  He unapologetically delved into every silly scheme and ridiculous resource in order to fill our lives with joy.  He did not think twice about topping khakis and a polo with his niece’s tiny dance leotard when meeting her sister’s date for the first time. Nor did he bat an eye as he walked into a Great Gatsby White Party dressed in tiny white shorts and a cut off t-shirt. He was never embarrassed or outdone by anyone.   He delighted in teasing loved ones, never wasting a second on someone that couldn’t get the joke. He had a special talent for flying by the seat of his pants and was undaunted by the loss of an occasional fire pit or porch swing due to missing key parts that he claimed as “spare”. He somehow once managed to carve turkey burned beyond recognition and serve it with a smile.

The only person known to come with a warning label, Tom’s brilliant lightning-fast wit and shenanigans, shied to his capacity for kindness. He went to great lengths to validate everyone in his path. He recognized the humanity in all.  Quick to share and always inclusive, he was a facilitator for fellowship and connection. He set the example for how to spend ourselves in service to family, friends, and those in need of hope.  Tom went to great lengths to honor everyone in his life. He was successful in every facet of his life, yet, he was most proud and excited to hold the title of Papa.  He poured the very best of himself into his grandchildren. He was their greatest cheerleader. They were his number one priority.

He is survived by his parents, James and Ann Marie Schoemann; his beloved wife of 19 years, Terri; his daughter, Jaclyn (Ryan) Schroeder and their son, Brooks Thomas; his son, Matt (Hannah) Schoemann and their daughter, Stella James; his daughter, Jaynie (Daniel) Payne and their daughter, Libby Blair; his daughter, Noel (Max) Jamison and their daughter, Juni Rose.

He is also survived by his doting sisters, Debra (Richard) Garcia, Susan (William) Herold, Dianne Smith, Theresa (Richard) Flis, Christine (Carl) Mascio, and Mary Jane (David) Kelm.   Tom leaves his father and mother-in-law, Ronnie (Betty) Knight; brother-in-law, Ron (Caroline) Knight and their daughters, Sarah Margaret and Charlotte; nephews and nieces, Robert (Jill) Trembath and their son, Bryson, Lauren Trembath (Jeremy Kuhn), Lindsay (Shannon) Rogers and their children, Mallory and Will, Andrea Herold (Rob Oram), Sean (Gianna) Dunn, Coleton Smith, Zachary (Samantha) Flis, Evan (Alexis) Flis, Ryann, C.J., Jake, and Samantha Mascio.  

A visitation will be held from 4:00-6:00 on Thursday, February 8 at Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home in Ocean Springs. A funeral service will follow at 6:00.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Jackson County Animal Shelter honoring Tom’s favorite dogs Genesee and Thelma Lou.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Thomas James “Tom” Schoemann.