Thomas George Pilling, born on June 6, 1953 in Weehawken, NJ passed away peacefully at age 71 on April 29, 2025 at UCSF Parnassus Hospital in San Francisco, CA following his cancer diagnosis. Friends and family were available for comfort in his final weeks.

Tom, as he was affectionately known, is survived by his family: daughter Erin Pilling, sister Cheryl Pilling, former wife Maureen Maioriello, niece Tiffany Manzo, nephew Shaun Pilling, extended family, and many other beloved friends that he considered family. He is predeceased by his parents Edward and Barbara Pilling, as well as his sister Linda Manzo.

Ever the hard worker, Tom had a 31 year career as a skilled tradesman in the New Jersey Carpenters Union working as a floor layer at Modern Floors of Ramsey, NJ. During this time, he was a dedicated father and benevolent caretaker of his aging parents. Tom was masterful with numbers but also creatively witty in his carefree approach to life. He retired around age 55 and spent much of his time traveling between the East Coast and California. Tom was a free spirit - always in search of a quiet beach or a vibrant live music venue, both of which calmed his soul.

After finally settling down in the Cole Valley neighborhood of San Francisco 8 years ago, Tom became a steadfast presence in the community. He could often be found basking in the sun on a bench in Golden Gate Park and interacting with his friends on Carl Street. One of his favorite daily routines was taking a stroll down to Crepes on Cole for breakfast. Tom was known for his desire to keep things “nice and tidy” by collecting recycling, distributing mail for his neighbors, and tending to the communal garden. Those who knew Tom will remember him for his endless generosity and unwavering loyalty to those close to his heart. A friend of Tom’s was a friend for life.

As Tom was an avid follower of the Grateful Dead, the self-proclaimed deadhead had a sincere connection to his San Francisco home. He attended dozens of their shows and frequented many venues throughout the US, including the Warfield. In the words of the late, great Jerry Garcia: “I think I would like to be known as a guy who had a pretty good time while he was here.”

Tom’s sudden passing has deeply affected the hearts of his friends and family but Tom, with his easygoing temperament, would want all his loved ones to also be at peace. His presence will be greatly missed.

Close family will be gathering for an intimate Celebration of Life but plan to later return Tom's ashes to his desired resting place in his home state of California.

Memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society: https://donate.cancer.org/

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