In Loving Memory of Tom Ruby

Tom was an employee of the New York State Department of Transportation, Region 10 (Long Island) Construction Group. Tom also worked with our NYSDOT Main Office Construction IT and CSMIN groups. He was loved by all who worked with him, and always went the extra mile to help you in whatever way he could, whether it was a computer issue, assisting with coordination for an ICS / storm event, or giving advice to a coworker or friend in need. He was a very funny guy. His quick wit and wonderful sense of humor was enjoyed by all. He was excellent at problem solving and logistics. A great friend, colleague and coworker to all; in fact Tom was like family to so many of us who had the privilege and honor to know him. Tom put others before himself. He was always just a phone call or text message away. He would be the first one to ask if we are collecting money for a coworker – be it for celebratory breakfast, lunch, gift, donation, etc.

Tom retired from NYSDOT effective at 3:30 pm on Wednesday, April 14th, 2021. His career totaled 37 years, 7 months, and 17 days – Tom, had looked this up himself!

Tom’s passing on Saturday, May 14, 2022, came as a shock to us all. He was in the Regional DOT Office just about two days before, being his usual self, keeping us engaged with his funny stories and laughter.

Tom was very happy in his retirement from NYSDOT. He started a new career in April of 2021 with the Consultant Engineering firm, NV5 as an Office Engineer, and quickly became a beloved member of the NV5 family, they loved him and quickly grew to enjoy having him on their team as the DOT had enjoyed for so many years. Though retired from NYSDOT, he would still often visit us whenever he was in the State Office Building, and still was always just a phone call or text message away.

Tom was a beloved member of the Commack community where he raised his two children, Maddie and Nick, with his wife of 29 years, Josephine. Tom was very active with the Boy Scouts of America in the Matinecock District. He was assistant Den Leader and Assistant Cub Master for Cub Scout Pack 322 with both Maddie and Nick, then transitioned to Committee Member when they both crossed over to Commack/East Northport Troop 403. He was leader and mentor to the young men in the Troop, providing his guidance and wisdom on life, trivia and music.

This GoFundMe is to assist Tom’s family financially, including with college expenses for Nick among other responsibilities.

He has left an indelible mark on us all!