Thomas Joseph Prioreschi

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Thomas Joseph Prioreschi, a man whose life was a tapestry of love, commitment, and extraordinary achievements. Born on December 14, 1938, in Cleveland, Ohio, Tom left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Thomas is survived by his devoted wife, Madeline, and their eight grown children: Karen Hay (Al), Jean Andrews (Alan), Jeff Prioreschi (Amy), Jim Prioreschi, Mike Helmstetter (Lynn), Phil Helmstetter (Monica), Nicole Helmstetter, Brandon Helmstetter (Jenna) and daughter in love, Pam Jaros. His legacy extends to fourteen grandchildren: Travis (Julia), A.J. (Darcy), Jordyn, Laura (Watty), Derek, Sophie, Karsyn Ann, Nolan, Lukas, Siri, Evan, Sierra, Mason (Nurcan), Alyson, and two great-grandsons: Caden and Beckham, his brother Dick Prioreschi, nephew Dale and niece Jill, each a testament to the love and values he instilled in his family.

Thomas faced life's challenges with unwavering courage and grace, bravely battling cancer for over three years. His grit and resilience throughout this journey were a testament to his strength of character, inspiring all who knew him.

A highly accomplished individual, Thomas earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering and an MBA from Case Western Reserve. He always valued his time at Case Western Reserve with the highlight being a brother of the Phi Kappa Theta fraternity. His professional journey began as a chemical engineer at Union Carbide, later transitioning into systems management at International Paper Company. Thomas's entrepreneurial spirit led him to own a New Jersey-based real estate company before he and Madeline moved to downtown Columbia, SC, to establish a real estate development company.

Thomas had a deep and abiding love for Columbia, SC, a city he and Madeline proudly called home. Their commitment to the community was groundbreaking, igniting a renewed passion for downtown living. Thomas's visionary spirit played a pivotal role in the city's transformation, and his love for the area was contagious. In June 2021, Tom was honored with a “Key to the City” of Columbia South Carolina by Major Steve Benjamin, a tribute to his work as a real estate developer. His impact on the local community will forever be felt, and his love for Columbia will be remembered as an integral part of his remarkable legacy.

Thomas was not only a brilliant mind but also a passionate Cleveland sports fan. His legendary love for the Cleveland Browns was a source of joy and camaraderie for all who knew him. His enthusiasm for life extended beyond sports, and he shared his zest for living with all those around him.

Thomas lived an extraordinary life, touching countless hearts with his unwavering love and kindness. To many, he exemplified the meaning of unconditional love. His incredible gift was to filter out the unimportant and focus on the meaningful enriching the lives of all who knew him. Tom was quite a character with a unique sense of humor. His legacy is the indelible imprint he leaves on his immediate and extended family.

A celebration of Thomas's life will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, January 29, 2024 at 701 Whaley. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to SCOA Cares Foundation at https://www.scoacares.org/ , Historic Columba at https://www.historiccolumbia.org/ or Transitions Homeless Shelter at https://transitionssc.org/ continuing Thomas's commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Thomas Joseph Prioreschi will be dearly missed but forever remembered for the love, wisdom, and joy he shared with everyone fortunate enough to have known him. May his memory continue to inspire us all.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.dunbarfuneralhomedevine.com for the Prioreschi family.