Tom Stevens, of Killingworth, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2026, at the age of 86.

Born in Canada on January 19, 1940, Tom was the son of Edmund Stevens and Dale Bye Stevens. He grew up in Ontario where he developed the curiosity, creativity and strong work ethic that would shape his life. He later made his home in Killingworth, Connecticut where he approached life as an innovator, always exploring new ideas that might improve the world around him. Tom studied architecture in college, a field that reflected his lifelong passion for design, creativity, and building. He devoted more than 50 years to a career in construction. Beginning as a laborer, he worked his way through the trades to become a supervisor on industrial, commercial, and residential construction projects. Throughout his career he was always looking for better ways to build, with a deep interest in passive solar design, aquaponic greenhouses, green energy systems, and other innovative approaches for sustainable living. An "idea person" by nature, Tom loved exploring new concepts and sharing ideas that could benefit others.

Tom was a devoted member of the Bahá’í Faith and an active participant in the Bahá’í community. His commitment to the Faith began early, when he hitchhiked more than 100 miles to attend his first Bahá’í meeting—a journey that reflected the dedication he would carry throughout his life. Over the years, he served on several Local Spiritual Assemblies, the elected governing bodies of the Bahá’í community, offering his time, wisdom, and encouragement in service to those communities. Tom was always supportive of others and genuinely enjoyed helping people learn more about the Bahá’í teachings. He welcomed questions, encouraged thoughtful exploration, and sought to live the Bahá’í principles of unity and service each day. His warmth, gentle spirit, and willingness to help others made him a cherished friend and a beloved member of the Bahá’í community.

Tom is lovingly remembered by his wife, Jody Lynn and her sister, Jean Carol Nikocevic; children, Rose Hardin, cherished as family, Edmund Thomas Stevens and wife Trina, Sara Eileen Jette and husband James, Michael Stevens and his former wife Laedee CrEscovers. He was the proud grandfather of Mackenzie, Emilie, Avery, Zachary, Liam and Riley, Maya and Robin; and many friends whose lives were enriched by his friendship and encouragement.

Tom will be remembered for his curiosity, staunch faith, and lifelong desire to make the world a better place through both practical innovation and service to others. Throughout his life, he built far more than homes. He built friendships encouraged hope, shared knowledge, and helped lay foundations of faith and unity that will endure in the hearts of those who knew him. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched through his kindness, and belief in the potential of every person.

A memorial service celebrating Tom’s life will be held at Centerbrook Cemetery, 37 Westbrook Road, Centerbrook village in the town of Essex, Connecticut on Saturday (Aug. 8th). Please gather between 11-11:30 am. Following the memorial service, all are invited to a potluck lunch at the Centerbrook Meeting House, 51 Main Street in the Centerbrook village of Essex, to share a meal, fellowship, and memories as we celebrate Tom's life. Parking is available to the right of the entrance in the parking lot or in the lot on the left side but only along the wall of the Meeting House. Please do not park in other areas