Thomas K. Pettus ’71

Our highly respected classmate Tom died April 15, 2025, in Black Mountain, N.C., after living many years with Parkinson’s and Lewy body dementia.

Tom came to Princeton from Myers Park High School in Charlotte, N.C. He majored in religion, rowed lightweight crew, belonged to Cap and Gown, and lived with Waterman, Perraut, Jim Brown, and Morrisey in Blair senior year.

After earning a master’s degree at Princeton Theological Seminary, Tom graduated from medical school at the University of North Carolina. He completed his residency in internal medicine in Minnesota and then devoted his career to geriatric medicine as a kind, thoughtful, and deeply compassionate physician in Minneapolis, remembered for his leadership of and advocacy for high-quality senior living and hospice.

Tom was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a loyal friend to many. He was passionate about road cycling, organizing local weekend rides, and embarking on cross country journeys.

The class extends its condolences to his wife, Cecily Hines; son Zachary; the rest of his family.