Tom Fay Jr.

Long-time residents of Chelsea were saddened to learn over the holiday weekend of the passing (after a lengthy battle with diabetes) of Tom Fay Jr., who for many years was an integral part of the fabric of our community.

Tom was a true Chelsea guy through-and through. He was a member of a well-respected family who served on the Board of Aldermen as an alderman-at-large. Although he entered politics during a tumultuous era in Chelsea in the 1970s, Tom always maintained a tone of civility and dignity for the office he held. He placed the welfare of the city above all else and understood that a person in public life always must strive to earn the respect of his colleagues and the voters.

Tom was well-known for his dedication to Chelsea Little League, serving for many years as a coach and officer.  He was best-known as the manager of the Major League Indians, leading the team to a succession of city championships. He was a master of the fundamentals and built a dynasty that never will be matched. His love of the game of baseball was contagious and the players whom he mentored carried on that enthusiasm well beyond their Little League years.

Tommy also served as the manager of the Chelsea Babe Ruth program, where his teams consistently challenged for championships. The match-ups versus Revere packed the old Merritt Park.

Tommy was an outstanding player in the Chelsea Fast Pitch Softball League that filled the old Carter Park nightly for games. He was a highly-skilled player who played the outfield on some of the great teams that were perennial contenders for the title. He thoroughly enjoyed playing on the same team with his younger brother, Kenny, the team’s second baseman and an incredible bunter. Tommy Fay was a part of legendary group of players such as Bill Palladino, Bobby Halas, Red Carroll, Jim and Fran Grafton, Jimmy Cronin, Bobby Gall, and so many others who brought softball fans to their feet.

Above all else, Tom was a loving father to his three sons, Thomas III (who himself carried on his father’s legacy with the Little League Indians as a player and coach), Scott, and Todd.

Tommy Fay Jr. contributed in countless ways to the betterment of Chelsea. We know we join with our fellow residents in offering our condolences to his family. He will be missed.

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