ADAMS, Mass. — Thomas J. McAndrews, 83, passed away on Aug. 28, 2025, at the Centers for Living and Rehabilitation (CLR) in Bennington, Vt. where he resided for many years. 

Thomas grew up in Adams graduating from Adams Memorial High School in 1960, with the nickname of "Morgan." As a teenager, he played basketball, football and baseball.  As a young adult, he played basketball for the popular team known as the Adams Turners. He later earned his bachelor's degree at North Adams State College.

He met his wife, Joan Arnold, of Hoosick Falls, NY while dancing at the "famous" Three Way in Petersburg, New York. They soon married and while on their honeymoon in New York City, they met the Beatles in the Peppermint Lounge, a story they both enjoyed sharing.

Basketball was the love of his life, as a player, fan and a coach. Thomas' basketball journey included the organization and coaching of teams from youth to semi-pro levels of play. He shared his knowledge of the Boston Celtics, as well as his personal experiences of the sport with essentially anyone that would listen.

Thomas and his wife lived in Berkshire County for many years, raising their children primarily in Pittsfield, where he was heavily involved with The Boys Club, as well as an active umpire for high school sports such as basketball, baseball and soccer. His work through the years included various sales positions, as well as social work. At retirement, he and his wife moved to Hoosick Falls, New York and then nearby Cambridge, New York, to be close to their grandchildren.

The CLR was his home for many years and his family was thankful for the care he received there. He leaves behind staff that were very special to him, including Matt, Barb, Eileen and Rhonda, to name a few. 

Thomas was predeceased by his parents, John McAndrews and Kathleen (Murphy) McAndrews, and his wife, Joan (Arnold) McAndrews. He is survived by his sister, Patricia Catelotti (Ronald) of Adams, Massachusetts, his daughter, Paula Meerwarth (Jack) of White Creek, New York, his son, Shaun McAndrews (Linda) of Jacksonville, Florida, his granddaughter, Mallary Acree (Brett) of Hoosick Falls, New York, his grandson, Jacob Meerwarth of Ballston Spa, New York, his grandson, Garret McAndrews of Jacksonville, Florida, his great granddaughter, Esme Acree and his great grandson, Kellan Acree, both of Hoosick Falls, New York. He is also survived by his Aunt Mary Jane (McAndrews) Pansecchi of Adams, Massachusetts, as well as several nieces and nephews and many Irish cousins. 

A funeral church service will be held on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at 11:30 AM at the St. John's The Baptist Catholic Church in North Bennington, Vermont, for family and friends with a reception to follow. A burial will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are under the care of the Mahar Funeral Home, 43 Main Street in Hoosick Falls, NY. Memorial contributions can be made to the Town of Hoosick Youth Center through the funeral home.