Birmingham Community Comes Together to Honor Beloved School Figure
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – On a night filled with nostalgia and remembrance, the John Carroll Catholic High School family gathered to celebrate the life of a truly remarkable figure, Tom Marks, affectionately known as “Papa Tom.” This heartfelt tribute took place during the school’s homecoming game, where the traditional lighting of the cauldron served as a glowing honor to a man who left a lasting impact on everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.
A Legacy That Shines Bright
Papa Tom had been a cherished member of the John Carroll community for five years, working as a maintenance man who went above and beyond the call of duty. But his connection to the school ran much deeper; he was an alum, having graduated in 1960. His unexpected passing in September left a significant void, one that was palpable in the hearts of students, faculty, and staff alike.
During the ceremony, a heartfelt announcement was made, encouraging attendees to shift their focus to the north end zone, where they would pay tribute to Papa Tom. “Ladies and gentlemen, please turn your attention to the north end zone, as tonight we honor 1960 John Carroll graduate Papa Tom Marks,” the spokesperson said, prompting a wave of applause and cheers from the crowd.
Memories that Last a Lifetime
The legacy of Papa Tom is not just commemorated by notes and speeches; it lives on through the stories of those he touched. His daughter, Kristi Bradford, reflected on how delighted he would be by this honor. “He’s a graduate of John Carroll and just loves the school, loves the students, and loves the teachers. So, this light for him is perfect,” she expressed with a smile.
Students shared their own heartfelt memories. Senior Juliana Rickman recalled a moment of personal connection: “After I struggled on a test, he saw me in the hallway and prayed with me. That’s stuck with me forever.”
Another student, Nicholas Shunnarah, felt a special bond with Papa Tom, describing him as a grandfather figure. “I grew up without one, so he was very close to me,” he said, highlighting the importance of their relationship.
A Daily Ritual Remembered
Many staff members fondly remembered the little things about Papa Tom that made a big difference. Sr. Mary Patrick Connor, OP, shared a touching story about how every morning he would ensure her classroom door was unlocked, setting a positive tone for her day. “The first morning after he died, I came in and my door was not unlocked,” Sister Mary Patrick recalled. “Every morning when I come in and my door is closed, I pray for him.”
The Family’s Grateful Reflection
For Papa Tom’s family, witnessing the outpouring of love and appreciation from the John Carroll community provided some solace in their time of grief. Kristi emphasized how special her father was, not just as a parent but as a mentor who made an unquantifiable impact on so many lives. “He was special and unique, but I don’t think we realized how much he was naturally helping students and teachers through his little actions,” she reflected.
Papa Tom’s Indelible Mark
The tribute on Friday served to remind everyone of the profound way Papa Tom impacted lives. He may be gone, but his spirit will continue to shine bright at John Carroll Catholic High School, where every moment shared with him will be cherished for many years to come.
