Fortified with the Sacraments of Holy Mother Church, Friday January 20, 2023, age 77.
Tom was born on March 16, 1945 to the late Effie and Albert “Red” Villa.
Beloved husband of Karen Ann Villa (Harvey) for 52 years, brother of Jack Villa (Suzy) and Jane Villa. He is preceded in death by his sister Judy Villa Bersche. Tom was a great uncle to his many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews.
Tom never met a stranger. He was kind, thoughtful, loyal, generous and helpful to everyone he encountered.
He had a great sense of humor and loved playing practical jokes on his many friends.
Tom graduated from St. Louis University, received a master’s degree from the University of Missouri, St. Louis, and later attended the John F. Kennedy School Of Government at Harvard University.
After teaching High School English, Tom was called to continue in his father’s footsteps. Tom was first and foremost a servant of the people – politics was simply a means to a life of service.
Tom had more friends and helped more people than one can count. Tom was known for his quick wit, colorful suits, and no BS approach to government. Tom didn’t know a stranger and anyone who thought they were a political or policy opponent of Tom was quickly swayed by his charm, logic and commitment to service. Tom was an old school politician who was a role model and mentor for so many. His Nephew Matt was inspired by Tom and served as the 11th Ward Alderman from 1997-2011.
Tom served as a Missouri State Representative from 1974-1984 representing South St. Louis City and also served as Majority Floor Leader. He again served as a State Representative from
2000-2008. From 1987-1995 Tom served as the President of the St. Louis City Board of Aldermen. Tom also served as the St. Louis Director of Public Safety; he was a member of Mayor Schoemehl’s cabinet; was the Director of Governmental Relations for Mayor Harmon; and closed out his lifetime of service returning to his roots as the 11th ward alderman from 2011-2017.
Tom served on many Boards, including The Airport Commission, East West Gateway, Landmarks Association, Jefferson National Parks Association, Incarnate Word Foundation and Carondelet Community Betterment Federation.
Tom was a lifelong member of St. Stephen Protomartyr Parish in South St. Louis City.
Tom was blessed with a sudden and peaceful death, leaving behind those who mourn the passing of a beloved legend.
In lieu of flowers please send donations to St. Vincent de Paul Society at Stephen Protomartyr, 3949 Wilmington, St. Louis, MO 63116.
There will be a funeral Mass at St. Margaret Mary Alacoque Church, 4900 Ringer Rd., 63129, on Saturday, January 28, at 10:00 am. Visitation will be Friday, January 27 from 3:00-9:00, at Kutis in Affton, at 10151 Gravois Rd. 63123.
We just lost a true gentleman. I am sure that his memory will be forever in the hearts of those he touched. RIP my friend.
We just lost a true gentleman. I am sure that his memory will be forever in the hearts of those he touched. RIP my friend.
We lost a great friend and person. Tom never met a stranger. The most honest and down to earth person I have ever known. May God Bless Karen and your family. R.I.P. Tom .
We lost a great friend and person. Tom never met a stranger. The most honest and down to earth person I have ever known. May God Bless Karen and your family. R.I.P. Tom .
Mr. Thomas A. Villa assisted me while I was wrongfully incarcerated in Missouri prison and tried to stop then circuit attorney Jennifer Joyce from her prosecution of false charges that she was well aware. I am Maurice Williams, son of the late Hon. Willie Williams Sr., 21st ward Alderman.. My condolences to Mrs. Villa.
Mr. Thomas A. Villa assisted me while I was wrongfully incarcerated in Missouri prison and tried to stop then circuit attorney Jennifer Joyce from her prosecution of false charges that she was well aware. I am Maurice Williams, son of the late Hon. Willie Williams Sr., 21st ward Alderman.. My condolences to Mrs. Villa.
Karen: Michele and I were shocked to hear of Tom’s passing. We extend our deepest sympathy for your loss and we know that his absence will leave a tremendous void in your life. Tom was such a kind, witty, personable gentleman who will be missed by many. Both of us always enjoyed being in his presence. Our prayers are with you.
Karen: Michele and I were shocked to hear of Tom’s passing. We extend our deepest sympathy for your loss and we know that his absence will leave a tremendous void in your life. Tom was such a kind, witty, personable gentleman who will be missed by many. Both of us always enjoyed being in his presence. Our prayers are with you.
Karen and all the Villa family, my deepest sympathy for this great loss. I cherish all the fond memories throughout the political and personal experiences I shared with Tom. I will always remember this gentle giant, his smile, kindness and humor. Love and peace, Kim “Dawn” Becker
Karen and all the Villa family, my deepest sympathy for this great loss. I cherish all the fond memories throughout the political and personal experiences I shared with Tom. I will always remember this gentle giant, his smile, kindness and humor. Love and peace, Kim “Dawn” Becker
I was fortunate to get to know Tom over the past six or seven years, and he was a great person. I always enjoyed speaking with him and learning from him, hearing his witticisms and commentary on the state of things in the banking industry, the City of St. Louis, and beyond. Tom was a true teacher, and he genuinely cared about others. He was always very generous and supportive in the not for profit causes I was championing throughout the years. I have several hand-written notes of appreciation from Tom that I will keep and cherish. My sincere condolences to Karen and the Villa family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
I was fortunate to get to know Tom over the past six or seven years, and he was a great person. I always enjoyed speaking with him and learning from him, hearing his witticisms and commentary on the state of things in the banking industry, the City of St. Louis, and beyond. Tom was a true teacher, and he genuinely cared about others. He was always very generous and supportive in the not for profit causes I was championing throughout the years. I have several hand-written notes of appreciation from Tom that I will keep and cherish. My sincere condolences to Karen and the Villa family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
So sorry for our loss – with deepest sympathy for a life we’ll lived…
So sorry for our loss – with deepest sympathy for a life we’ll lived…
I’m so sad to hear of Tom’s passing. My sympathy to Karen and the entire Villa family. Tom was special. He was smart, kind, and very very funny. He knew that laughter was the road to understanding and friendship. He was a rich man because wealth is really how many people call you friend. I am so sorry I am out of the state and won’t be able to attend the funeral.
I’m so sad to hear of Tom’s passing. My sympathy to Karen and the entire Villa family. Tom was special. He was smart, kind, and very very funny. He knew that laughter was the road to understanding and friendship. He was a rich man because wealth is really how many people call you friend. I am so sorry I am out of the state and won’t be able to attend the funeral.
Ed and I want to express our deepest sympathy to the entire Villa family on the
Loss of your loved one. We have fond memories of Tom when he was our
Alderman in the 11th ward and then our state representative.
Besides doing a good job for the folks in Carondelet , he was always kind to everyone he knew.. He will be missed by many..
Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Ed and I want to express our deepest sympathy to the entire Villa family on the
Loss of your loved one. We have fond memories of Tom when he was our
Alderman in the 11th ward and then our state representative.
Besides doing a good job for the folks in Carondelet , he was always kind to everyone he knew.. He will be missed by many..
Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
I only got to know Tom over the course of the last year, but of course was well aware of his legendary status as an accomplished politician. The kind that got things done in the best tradition of honorable politics. Every good thing I’ve heard and read about him since his passing was evident to me in the short time I had the pleasure of dealing with him. Just a sad loss. Karen, Eileen and I extend our deepest heartfelt sympathies. God bless, and may Tom R.I.P.
I only got to know Tom over the course of the last year, but of course was well aware of his legendary status as an accomplished politician. The kind that got things done in the best tradition of honorable politics. Every good thing I’ve heard and read about him since his passing was evident to me in the short time I had the pleasure of dealing with him. Just a sad loss. Karen, Eileen and I extend our deepest heartfelt sympathies. God bless, and may Tom R.I.P.
Tom Villa was always a committed person. I met Tom in 1971 when he was a guidance counselor at Central High School and I became Director of Guidance & Testing Services for the St, Louis schools. He was competent then and continued his competence as he entered politics. I offer my most sincere sympathy to Tom’s wife and family.
Tom Villa was always a committed person. I met Tom in 1971 when he was a guidance counselor at Central High School and I became Director of Guidance & Testing Services for the St, Louis schools. He was competent then and continued his competence as he entered politics. I offer my most sincere sympathy to Tom’s wife and family.
Karen and the Villa family- we are so sorry to hear about Tom. He will be greatly missed. We will keep your family in our thoughts and prayers. Wishing you comfort and peace during this difficult time.
Karen and the Villa family- we are so sorry to hear about Tom. He will be greatly missed. We will keep your family in our thoughts and prayers. Wishing you comfort and peace during this difficult time.
Peace be with you Karen and family. You and Tom are role models for us all. What a joy and a blessing to have known Tom.
Peace be with you Karen and family. You and Tom are role models for us all. What a joy and a blessing to have known Tom.
Karen we will miss him at the 4:00 club. Mass was offered up for him Saturday and Bob and I are thinking of you and how he will be missed. Prayers are with you and your whole family. He was a very nice man with always having a smile .
Karen we will miss him at the 4:00 club. Mass was offered up for him Saturday and Bob and I are thinking of you and how he will be missed. Prayers are with you and your whole family. He was a very nice man with always having a smile .
‘Mr. Villa’ as I knew him from his time at Central HS believed in me. He made a difference in this young 14 year old student. He was the BEST without question.
I pray that our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ comfort you in this time of loss.
Know that he was loved by all.
Central High Class of ’73
‘Mr. Villa’ as I knew him from his time at Central HS believed in me. He made a difference in this young 14 year old student. He was the BEST without question.
I pray that our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ comfort you in this time of loss.
Know that he was loved by all.
Central High Class of ’73
My heart is heavy, I had the honor of not only serving in the Missouri House with Tom, but also he was my seat mate. Always witty, mischievous but always a statesman. Mastered the art of personal and political engagement. More importantly taught me how important it was to know the rules of the House. A true profile in Courage.
My heart is heavy, I had the honor of not only serving in the Missouri House with Tom, but also he was my seat mate. Always witty, mischievous but always a statesman. Mastered the art of personal and political engagement. More importantly taught me how important it was to know the rules of the House. A true profile in Courage.
I was saddened to learn of Tom’s passing. I met him some 40 years ago when he was a State Representative and I was in the Mayor’s office. He was a pleasure to work with, as the same character traits that people praise now, were evident then. Even as our lives diverged and I moved from St. Louis, I continued to follow and admire his career in public service. He was one-of-a-kind…a kind we need more of. My sympathies to Karen and the Villa family. I know he will be deeply missed.
I was saddened to learn of Tom’s passing. I met him some 40 years ago when he was a State Representative and I was in the Mayor’s office. He was a pleasure to work with, as the same character traits that people praise now, were evident then. Even as our lives diverged and I moved from St. Louis, I continued to follow and admire his career in public service. He was one-of-a-kind…a kind we need more of. My sympathies to Karen and the Villa family. I know he will be deeply missed.
May his memory be a blessing. Tom is one of the reasons I am so committed to the City of St. Louis and one of several people to whom I owe my depth of understanding of the workings of City Hall and the State House. But more importantly, Tom taught me that it is all about the people we serve and our responsibility to them, a lesson I practice every day of my professional life. My condolences to the entire Villa family for your loss of a really terrific guy.
May his memory be a blessing. Tom is one of the reasons I am so committed to the City of St. Louis and one of several people to whom I owe my depth of understanding of the workings of City Hall and the State House. But more importantly, Tom taught me that it is all about the people we serve and our responsibility to them, a lesson I practice every day of my professional life. My condolences to the entire Villa family for your loss of a really terrific guy.
A giant in personality, intelligence, patience, kindness, humor and humility. I will miss him and the little notes he would send. The world and politics needs more Tom Villa’s.
A giant in personality, intelligence, patience, kindness, humor and humility. I will miss him and the little notes he would send. The world and politics needs more Tom Villa’s.
He was my mentor, friend, and forever “Boss.” Godspeed.
Ms.P.
He was my mentor, friend, and forever “Boss.” Godspeed.
Ms.P.
To simply call Tom Villa a giant in Missouri politics would grossly understate the impact he had on the institutions where he served and the people with whom he served. The very definition of a statesman, everybody listened when Tom spoke on the floor of the Missouri House. Even when I disagreed with him, I found his oratory gripping and his arguments compelling. Once, shortly after I had been elected to the House, I was standing in the hallway looking for a friend, who had served in the 80’s, on the composites of past lawmakers that hung in those hallowed halls. Tom strode by and stopped in his tracks, took a couple of steps back and, pointing at the portraits, said, “One day your great grandchildren will be looking for your picture on that very same wall.” Without another word, Tom continued down the hall and out of sight. I stood there gape-jawed for quite some time after that thinking about what he had said. Another time, I complimented Tom’s brightly colored tie that adorned his neatly pressed suit. The next morning, I walked into my office to find that very same tie folded neatly, lain on my desk. That was Tom: small gestures, big speeches, and a larger than life presence that greatly impacted the people and places he graced. Deepest sympathies to the entire Villa clan.
To simply call Tom Villa a giant in Missouri politics would grossly understate the impact he had on the institutions where he served and the people with whom he served. The very definition of a statesman, everybody listened when Tom spoke on the floor of the Missouri House. Even when I disagreed with him, I found his oratory gripping and his arguments compelling. Once, shortly after I had been elected to the House, I was standing in the hallway looking for a friend, who had served in the 80’s, on the composites of past lawmakers that hung in those hallowed halls. Tom strode by and stopped in his tracks, took a couple of steps back and, pointing at the portraits, said, “One day your great grandchildren will be looking for your picture on that very same wall.” Without another word, Tom continued down the hall and out of sight. I stood there gape-jawed for quite some time after that thinking about what he had said. Another time, I complimented Tom’s brightly colored tie that adorned his neatly pressed suit. The next morning, I walked into my office to find that very same tie folded neatly, lain on my desk. That was Tom: small gestures, big speeches, and a larger than life presence that greatly impacted the people and places he graced. Deepest sympathies to the entire Villa clan.
Our sympathy for the Villa family on their loss of Tom. He devoted his life and political talents to the welfare of the people with great success, and in keeping with the Villa family tradition!
Our sympathy for the Villa family on their loss of Tom. He devoted his life and political talents to the welfare of the people with great success, and in keeping with the Villa family tradition!
I grew up in the Carondelet neighborhood and my parents were founding members of the Community Betterment organization. Tom, and his dad before him, were largely responsible for the well-being of that Southside Community. I remember him as always being generous with his time, influence, and resources for the greater good.
I grew up in the Carondelet neighborhood and my parents were founding members of the Community Betterment organization. Tom, and his dad before him, were largely responsible for the well-being of that Southside Community. I remember him as always being generous with his time, influence, and resources for the greater good.
I am deeply saddened to lose a dear friend. Tom and I grew up in tight knit neighborhoods near each other. We both chose public service and discovered we had similar ideas on how to help our communities and citizens. Tom was one of only a handful of people who supported me throughout my career with the SLMPD. I appreciated his encouragement and advice. Tom was also an advocate for the entire Law Enforcement community. He believed partnerships were essential to resolve issues. His love for the city was obvious by his commitment and dedication to everything he did. As a politician, Tom was very approachable and listened to everyone’s point of view. His humor often diffused intense arguments. We occasionally crossed paths while walking or running in the neighborhood. There were many jokes about our fitness levels but I always continued on my walk with a smile on my face and in my heart!! May his wonderful personality live in the hearts of his family forever and bring them comfort.
I am deeply saddened to lose a dear friend. Tom and I grew up in tight knit neighborhoods near each other. We both chose public service and discovered we had similar ideas on how to help our communities and citizens. Tom was one of only a handful of people who supported me throughout my career with the SLMPD. I appreciated his encouragement and advice. Tom was also an advocate for the entire Law Enforcement community. He believed partnerships were essential to resolve issues. His love for the city was obvious by his commitment and dedication to everything he did. As a politician, Tom was very approachable and listened to everyone’s point of view. His humor often diffused intense arguments. We occasionally crossed paths while walking or running in the neighborhood. There were many jokes about our fitness levels but I always continued on my walk with a smile on my face and in my heart!! May his wonderful personality live in the hearts of his family forever and bring them comfort.
My sympathy and condolences to Karen and the Villa family on Tom’s passing. Tom and I became friends through his service on our bank advisory board. He made an impact on, and became friends with, every person he met. His wit and humor always kept things fun and light. I always enjoyed his handwritten notes with advice and information. He will be deeply missed.
My sympathy and condolences to Karen and the Villa family on Tom’s passing. Tom and I became friends through his service on our bank advisory board. He made an impact on, and became friends with, every person he met. His wit and humor always kept things fun and light. I always enjoyed his handwritten notes with advice and information. He will be deeply missed.
Tom Villa
I am so sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. He was one of the most gracious and kind people I have known. I remember back in the 60’s, he would see me and always say “Hi Hamilton” referring to the character Hamilton Berger on the Perry Mason show. Whenever I would run into him over the years, he always took the time to stop, chat and make sure everything was OK. He will be sadly missed. RIP with the Lord my friend and my thoughts and prayers are with the Villa family during this difficult time. God Bless.
Tom Villa
I am so sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. He was one of the most gracious and kind people I have known. I remember back in the 60’s, he would see me and always say “Hi Hamilton” referring to the character Hamilton Berger on the Perry Mason show. Whenever I would run into him over the years, he always took the time to stop, chat and make sure everything was OK. He will be sadly missed. RIP with the Lord my friend and my thoughts and prayers are with the Villa family during this difficult time. God Bless.
What a Gentleman? What a Political Giant? What a Friend? I cannot count the number of times he & Barb came to bat for the St. Louis City Police Department. Capital Projects – Resolutions, Budget Hearings / Transfers, etc. As a devout Catholic I would see him at any number of downtown Catholic Churches on Holy Days of Obligation for noon Mass.
Rest in Peace my friend. My prayers are with his family. It is OK to grieve – it is the price of Love.
What a Gentleman? What a Political Giant? What a Friend? I cannot count the number of times he & Barb came to bat for the St. Louis City Police Department. Capital Projects – Resolutions, Budget Hearings / Transfers, etc. As a devout Catholic I would see him at any number of downtown Catholic Churches on Holy Days of Obligation for noon Mass.
Rest in Peace my friend. My prayers are with his family. It is OK to grieve – it is the price of Love.
My prayers for him and those closest to him. We were in the same Master’s Program at UMSL when he was at Central and I at St. Mary’s. He was a standout then and continued to be as I followed his public career from a distance. He exemplified the spirit of his father and the best of his fellow St. Mary’s alumni in public service in our city and state.
My prayers for him and those closest to him. We were in the same Master’s Program at UMSL when he was at Central and I at St. Mary’s. He was a standout then and continued to be as I followed his public career from a distance. He exemplified the spirit of his father and the best of his fellow St. Mary’s alumni in public service in our city and state.
I have known Tom since our days at St. Stephens Protomartyr, St. Mary’s High School and throughout the rest of his life on this earth. WHAT A GUY! I’m sure the Lord had plans for Tom as he entered those Pearly Gates. I want to echo all the comments offered earlier as spot on. Again, What A Guy!
My wife Jennifer and I want to offer our deepest sympathies to Karen, Jack, Jayne Anne and the rest of the Villa Family.
God Bless to all.
Glenn & Jennifer Bartels
I have known Tom since our days at St. Stephens Protomartyr, St. Mary’s High School and throughout the rest of his life on this earth. WHAT A GUY! I’m sure the Lord had plans for Tom as he entered those Pearly Gates. I want to echo all the comments offered earlier as spot on. Again, What A Guy!
My wife Jennifer and I want to offer our deepest sympathies to Karen, Jack, Jayne Anne and the rest of the Villa Family.
God Bless to all.
Glenn & Jennifer Bartels
I’ve known Tom since our days at St. Stephens Protomartyr and St. Mary’s High School and for the rest of Tom’’s days on this earth. WHAT A GUY! I concur and truly support all the comments noted above. Again, I can only echo, WHAT A GUY!
My wife Jennifer and I offer our deepest sympathies to Karen, Jack, Jane Ann and all of the Villa Family.
Glenn & Jennifer Bartels
I’ve known Tom since our days at St. Stephens Protomartyr and St. Mary’s High School and for the rest of Tom’’s days on this earth. WHAT A GUY! I concur and truly support all the comments noted above. Again, I can only echo, WHAT A GUY!
My wife Jennifer and I offer our deepest sympathies to Karen, Jack, Jane Ann and all of the Villa Family.
Glenn & Jennifer Bartels
I’ve known Tom for many years…even back to grade school, high school and for the rest of his time on this earth. WHAT A GUY! Those who met him never forgot him. I can only echo the many comments mentioned above.
Jennifer and I offer Karen, Jack, Jane Anne and all of the Villa Family our deepest sympathies.
Sincerely
Glenn & Jennifer Bartels
I’ve known Tom for many years…even back to grade school, high school and for the rest of his time on this earth. WHAT A GUY! Those who met him never forgot him. I can only echo the many comments mentioned above.
Jennifer and I offer Karen, Jack, Jane Anne and all of the Villa Family our deepest sympathies.
Sincerely
Glenn & Jennifer Bartels
Tom and I were classmates at Prep Seminary from 1959 – 1962. I remember him as a most congenial person with a great sense of humor -always pleasant and compassionate. Always a man of Faith.
He accomplished much as an Alderman, President of the Board of Alderman for the City of St. Louis and as State Representative. I pray that he will be richly blessed in eternity for all the good he accomplished in this life. God bless you, Tom! Rest in peace and celebrate eternally in the company of the angels and saints.
Tom and I were classmates at Prep Seminary from 1959 – 1962. I remember him as a most congenial person with a great sense of humor -always pleasant and compassionate. Always a man of Faith.
He accomplished much as an Alderman, President of the Board of Alderman for the City of St. Louis and as State Representative. I pray that he will be richly blessed in eternity for all the good he accomplished in this life. God bless you, Tom! Rest in peace and celebrate eternally in the company of the angels and saints.
Wow he was my counselor at central high school and was love by all yet in place
Wow he was my counselor at central high school and was love by all yet in place
My Condolences to the Villa family Mr Thomas Villa was my English teacher at Central High a man with a funny whit always willing to help and give good advice to someone RIH
My Condolences to the Villa family Mr Thomas Villa was my English teacher at Central High a man with a funny whit always willing to help and give good advice to someone RIH
I am so sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. As the Manager of the Carondelet Library, I always enjoyed seeing Tom at neighborhood meetings where he always had a joke (some better than others) and took time to speak to me. We were pleased to have Tom speak at our grand reopening after the branch was refreshed in 2012. My sympathies to the entire Villa family on your loss.
I am so sorry to hear of Tom’s passing. As the Manager of the Carondelet Library, I always enjoyed seeing Tom at neighborhood meetings where he always had a joke (some better than others) and took time to speak to me. We were pleased to have Tom speak at our grand reopening after the branch was refreshed in 2012. My sympathies to the entire Villa family on your loss.
I am involved with the Saint Vincent de Paul Society at Saint Stephen’s Catholic Church. Anytime Tom found out we had a need he quietly, and unbeknownst to all, would provide assistance in his quiet, gentle manner. That’s who he was!!! If our food pantry needed a new refrigerator, one would just show up … Tom at work! A life well lived!
I am involved with the Saint Vincent de Paul Society at Saint Stephen’s Catholic Church. Anytime Tom found out we had a need he quietly, and unbeknownst to all, would provide assistance in his quiet, gentle manner. That’s who he was!!! If our food pantry needed a new refrigerator, one would just show up … Tom at work! A life well lived!
My introduction to the essence of Tom Villa came when my minivan broke down en route to our first meeting. Without hesitation, he offered to come rescue me from the side of I-55. Luckily, AAA performed that service and Alderman Villa did what came most naturally to him. Utilizing political prowess and umpteen decades of relationships, he was able to create Missouri’s first permanent supportive housing development for youth aging out of foster care. We had tried the same proposal in two other STL locations. Never received the green light until Alderman Villa was involved. He loved that it rehabbed the building on the corner of S.Grand. I loved every single second I spent in his company. From a ride to city hall in his Jaguar, to sitting in Starbucks telling stories, to commanding each and every meeting we shared, Alderman Villa truly became one of the most memorable people I have ever known. The handwriting on his letters always stoped me dead, because it looked exactly like my Papa’s writing. Should the two of them meet in heaven, I know it will be a match of wits. Deepest condolences to Mrs. Villa and the entire family. Lucky are those of us who will be forever touched by Tom’s great life.
My introduction to the essence of Tom Villa came when my minivan broke down en route to our first meeting. Without hesitation, he offered to come rescue me from the side of I-55. Luckily, AAA performed that service and Alderman Villa did what came most naturally to him. Utilizing political prowess and umpteen decades of relationships, he was able to create Missouri’s first permanent supportive housing development for youth aging out of foster care. We had tried the same proposal in two other STL locations. Never received the green light until Alderman Villa was involved. He loved that it rehabbed the building on the corner of S.Grand. I loved every single second I spent in his company. From a ride to city hall in his Jaguar, to sitting in Starbucks telling stories, to commanding each and every meeting we shared, Alderman Villa truly became one of the most memorable people I have ever known. The handwriting on his letters always stoped me dead, because it looked exactly like my Papa’s writing. Should the two of them meet in heaven, I know it will be a match of wits. Deepest condolences to Mrs. Villa and the entire family. Lucky are those of us who will be forever touched by Tom’s great life.
These memories of Tom A. Villa strike me as embodiments of faith alive with gratitude. I am a constituent who treasures the memory of Tom’s seventh grade, well-penned praise of and thankfulness for the Carondelet Library–on display there in celebration of a library anniversary. Moving to Carondelet in 2004, I relied upon Tom’s annual reports from Jefferson City. Of his myriad abilities, talents and ways of making this world brighter, I am led to pray that his gift of gratitude for life may help us live ever more grateful lives.
These memories of Tom A. Villa strike me as embodiments of faith alive with gratitude. I am a constituent who treasures the memory of Tom’s seventh grade, well-penned praise of and thankfulness for the Carondelet Library–on display there in celebration of a library anniversary. Moving to Carondelet in 2004, I relied upon Tom’s annual reports from Jefferson City. Of his myriad abilities, talents and ways of making this world brighter, I am led to pray that his gift of gratitude for life may help us live ever more grateful lives.
What a Great guy!! Tom was the main reason I enjoyed neighborhood meetings. He always used Humor to let folks settle in to begin a meeting. You could always depend on Tom to have the facts on whatever topic he was addressing. If you were in the audience you had to have the thought: I really like this guy! He was so sure of himself, he was able to wear a solid FUCHSIA color Sport Coat! Whenever I see that color, anywhere, I think of Tom because he OWNED it!
It is not possible to forget him!
Tom Mc Clarren
What a Great guy!! Tom was the main reason I enjoyed neighborhood meetings. He always used Humor to let folks settle in to begin a meeting. You could always depend on Tom to have the facts on whatever topic he was addressing. If you were in the audience you had to have the thought: I really like this guy! He was so sure of himself, he was able to wear a solid FUCHSIA color Sport Coat! Whenever I see that color, anywhere, I think of Tom because he OWNED it!
It is not possible to forget him!
Tom Mc Clarren
Attended St. louis Prep with Tom in the early 60’s. played basketball against him and we called him the friendly giant. could not have asked for a nicer person. Reacquainted with Tom .out here in Scottsdale and he continued to be the wonderful gentleman. He and Karen were always on the putting green enjoying the sunshine. I know heaven will be a better place with Tom. God bless and keep you.
Attended St. louis Prep with Tom in the early 60’s. played basketball against him and we called him the friendly giant. could not have asked for a nicer person. Reacquainted with Tom .out here in Scottsdale and he continued to be the wonderful gentleman. He and Karen were always on the putting green enjoying the sunshine. I know heaven will be a better place with Tom. God bless and keep you.
You have my condolences. Tom was a good teacher and I enjoyed running into him at events in the years after.
Jim Gallen
Augustinian Academy 1970
You have my condolences. Tom was a good teacher and I enjoyed running into him at events in the years after.
Jim Gallen
Augustinian Academy 1970