Thomas Gleason, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 1, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on June 8, 1935, in Dorchester, Massachusetts, Thomas was the beloved son of Archibald Gleason and Maella Murphy, who instilled in him the values of kindness, integrity, and generosity.

Throughout his life, Thomas was a beacon of warmth and hospitality. Known affectionately as "The Irish Ambassador," he dedicated over 30 years of his career to sharing the beauty of Ireland with countless travelers. His journey in the world of travel began in 1963 when he joined Dartmouth Travel in Hanover, New Hampshire, and he later opened their New London office in 1974. In 1987, alongside his business partner Holly Walker, he realized his dream by founding Compass Travel, where his passion for exploration and storytelling flourished.

Thomas was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, serving from 1954 to 1958 as a Gunner's Mate 3rd Class. His commitment to service extended beyond his military years, as he was a dedicated member of the American Legion for over five decades, and also actively participated in the Lion’s Club and the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA).

A graduate of Enfield High School's class of 1954, Thomas furthered his education at the University of Travel in Cambridge, Massachusetts. His zest for life was evident in his hobbies; whether he was on the golf course, tending to his garden, or refinishing furniture, Thomas found joy in simple pleasures and delighted in sharing these moments with his family.

Family was at the heart of Thomas's life. He is survived by his devoted wife, Judy (Magnuski) Gleason, with whom he shared 67 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they raised four loving children: sons, Tom Gleason and wife, Patty, Mike Gleason and wife, Kim, and daughters, Donna (Gleason) Bourbeau, whose husband, Mike predeceased her, and Lynne (Gleason) Rafuse. Thomas's legacy extends to his ten grandchildren and twenty great-grandchildren, each of whom brought immeasurable joy to his life.

Thomas was predeceased by his parents, Archibald and Maella, his sisters Barbara Hardiman and Ruth Phillips, his niece Wendy Davis, and his son-in-law Mike Bourbeau. Despite these losses, Thomas's spirit remained resilient, and he continued to be a source of strength and love for those around him.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Merrimack County Nursing Home for their compassionate care and unwavering support during Thomas's final days.

In honor of Thomas's life and his enduring impact on those he met, memorial contributions may be made to the Edna McKenna Fund care of Merrimack County Nursing Home, Boscawen, NH. As we remember Thomas, we celebrate a life well-lived, defined by love, laughter, and a legacy that will endure in the hearts of all who knew him.

Services will be held Friday, November 20th at 1pm for a graveside service at the NH Veteran’s Cemetery in Boscawen, NH.

Assisting the family with arrangements is the Cremation Society of NH, Boscawen, NH.