Thomas Israel Hoey

Born in 1934 in Baltimore, Maryland, Thomas was a creative individual, jazz drum musician with a passion for photography. As a graduate of Carver High School, Thomas learned early the value of hard work as a bricklayer by trade. From his honorable time serving in the U.S. Air Force as Airman First Class, stationed abroad in Japan and in the United States, to his enthusiasm for camping and road trips, Thomas made memories and connections everywhere he went.

With his time in the Air Force ending in 1965, his journey brought him to Seattle, Washington as he began his 29-year career with King County Metro Transit. Thomas began as a bus driver, a role that transcended into instructional and safety training, as well as working on the Alaskan Way Viaduct replacement tunnel project before retiring in 1996.

Known to many as Tom, he was an individual that loved the melodies he created with his drums as much as he enjoyed the quiet serenity of fishing in nature. His love of music began in high school and continued into his eighties playing in the band at the VFW Renton post 1263.

Tom loved to share his family history and personal adventures with brilliant storytelling. Guests in his presence were always made to feel comfortable and included. Tom’s life will not only be measured in the many years he was fortunate to live, but in the many lives he touched along the way. He will forever be in our hearts and never forgotten.

Tom is survived by his loving wife of 51 years Paula Hoey, sister Lydia Thomas of Baltimore Maryland, sons Edward and Vincent Hoey, daughters Sharran Monyihan, Shelly Bynum, and Ashley Geros, son-in-law Randall Geros, nieces Kelly Thomas and Renada Thomas Gilliard of Baltimore Maryland, grandchildren Michael and Liam Monyihan, Christina and Michael Hoey, Symphony Bynum, and Tucker and Hailey Geros. Tom is preceded in death by his son Kevin Hoey and grandson Tyson Bynum.

Thomas will be laid to rest at Tahoma National Cemetery.

In lieu of a memorial service, the family kindly requests that you remember Tom by donating to either of the following:

Save the Music Foundation: https://www.savethemusic.org/

Northwest Harvest: https://www.northwestharvest.org/ways-to-give/

Recipient email: [email protected]