Obituary of Thomas J. Whiteley

August 22, 1947 – September 4, 2025

Thomas J. Whiteley, 78, formerly of Clinton, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2025, at his home in Bear Creek Lakes, Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on August 22, 1947, Tom was the son of the late William and Gladys Whiteley. He grew up in Hunterdon County and graduated from North Hunterdon Regional High School, Class of 1965.

On June 1, 1972, Tom married the love of his life, Suzan, and together they built a life filled with love, family, and community. He was a devoted husband, father to his daughter Amanda Ahlers, and adoring grandfather to Mackenzie Ahlers.

Tom dedicated much of his life to service through the Clinton Fire Department, where he was a proud member and volunteer. He served as Chief of the Clinton Fire Department from 1985 to 1989 and again from 1996 to 2000. His leadership, commitment, and countless hours of volunteer service earned him proclamations from the Town of Clinton recognizing his unwavering dedication to the fire service.

In his career, Tom worked as a dispatcher for Van Doren Oil Co., where his reliability and steady nature made him a trusted colleague. Outside of work and volunteerism, Tom found joy in stock car racing in Flemington, attending fire company activities, and cherishing time spent with his family.

He is survived by his loving wife, Suzan; his daughter, Amanda Ahlers and her husband Kevin; and his granddaughter, Mackenzie Ahlers. He was predeceased by his parents.

Memorial Visitation for family and friends will be held on Tuesday, September 9, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. with a Fireman’s Service starting at 6:00PM. All services will be held at the Clinton Fire Department, located at 1 New Street, Clinton NJ 08809. To send condolences to the family please visit www.martinfh.com

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tom’s memory to the Clinton Fire Department. Please Click Here to Donate

******PLEASE SEE THE CHANGE OF LOCATION FROM MARTIN FUNERAL HOME TO THE CLINTON FIRE DEPARTMENT******