Thomas J. "Tom" Leiby

Thomas J. Leiby, lovingly known as “Tom,” was born on May 26, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois, and passed peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on January 31, 2026.

He was the son of the late Lee and Dorothy Leiby, whose values helped shape the devoted family man he became.

Tom was the beloved husband of Martha Johnson Leiby, affectionately known as “Marti.” Married for 51 years, their life together was marked by deep love, partnership, and unwavering commitment.

Tom was a loving father to Jennifer Reid and her husband Vince Reid and Laurie-Ann Doyle Giumetti and her husband Rob Giumetti. His greatest joy was being “Grampy” to his cherished grandchildren: Craig Doyle, Tyler Reid, Hunter Doyle, Cacee Reid and Dylan Doyle.

He was also a devoted brother to Doug Leiby and his wife Lisa Leiby and Jackie Gilmartin. Family meant everything to Tom, and he showed his love through steady presence, reliability, and quiet support.

Tom was immensely proud of his grandchildren and took great joy in being part of their everyday lives, attending sporting events, helping with school pick-ups and drop-offs, and always making himself available for whatever they needed.

He worked for over 30 years at General Dynamics, where he was respected for his dedication and work ethic. Earlier in his career, he played softball for GTE (now General Dynamics), building friendships and enjoying the camaraderie of the game.

Service to others and community involvement were important parts of Tom’s life. He volunteered with Meals on Wheels in Needham and with the American Cancer Association, generously driving individuals to and from their treatment appointments. In addition, he worked part-time at Fidelity Bank, formerly Family Federal, in Needham, continuing his lifelong connection to the community through service and personal interaction. A wine connoisseur, Tom also enjoyed sharing his appreciation for wine with family and friends, often adding warmth and conversation to time spent together.

An avid golfer, Tom enjoyed being part of the GTE Golf League and the Needham Golf Club, pursuits that brought him great enjoyment and fellowship. He was also an International Judge for Kansas City BBQ, and a passionate barbecue enthusiast. In 2019, Tom was proudly placed 6th in the Sauces of Honor competition for his “Grampy’s Original Rib Sauce,” as recognized by the National Barbecue News. Sharing his BBQ creations with family was a joy, and his meals were always eagerly anticipated and lovingly taste-tested. He cherished traveling as well, especially the many family vacations to Aruba, a tradition enjoyed for over 30 years with family and friends.

Tom will be remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, proud Grampy, caring brother, and loyal friend. His life was defined by family, service, and the quiet joy of being present for those he loved. Though deeply missed, Tom’s legacy lives on through the family he adored and the many lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to The MDS Foundation or to an organization of one’s choice, in Tom’s memory. There will be no services, in accordance with his wishes.

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