Thomas Jerry Osborne, 82
With unfailing faith and a heart devoted to both God and family, Thomas Jerry Osborne passed away peacefully on April 25, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones.
Tom was born in Wilmington, Delaware, to Dillard and Flossie Osborne and was raised in Toughkenamon, Pennsylvania. He was a proud graduate of Kennett High School. He went on to serve his country honorably in the United States Army, a chapter of his life that reflected his deep sense of duty and commitment. Following his service, Tom worked at General Motors before pursuing his true passion, farming.
Tom was a man who believed in the value of hard work and simple living. He found joy in gardening, fishing, and baking. He also had a deep love for music, especially bluegrass, carrying on the legacy of his mother, Flossie. Whether he was working outdoors or sharing time with loved ones, he carried a quiet strength, a warm spirit, and a wonderful sense of humor that brought joy to those around him.
He loved to make people laugh and was known for his quick wit and the “Popisms” he shared, sayings that will continue to live on in the hearts and memories of his family for years to come.
Above all, Tom loved his family. He took great pride in raising his four daughters on his own, a role he carried with strength, dedication, and unconditional love. His daughters were the center of his world, and he was endlessly proud of the women they became. He is survived by his daughters, Bonnie Shaw (John), Tracy Osborne (Daniel), and Jennifer Osborne-Fell (Joe), and was preceded in death by his daughter, Rebecca Osborne. He is also survived by his sisters, Linda Tipton (Rich) and Shirley Pierce. Tom was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers David and Jon, and his brother-in-law Bob.
He leaves behind a cherished legacy in his grandchildren, Katrina Long, Eric Preisler (Katrena), Rae Herbert, Kearstin Pacheco (Eddie), Bonnie Cook, Jeremy Herbert, Kyler Crawford (Raegan), Dylan Osborne, JR Shaw III, Rohan Shumate, Thomas Shaw, Brooklyn Earhart-Shaw, Miranda Fell, Joe Fell and Alona Fell and his great-grandchildren, Aspen, Malaki, Atlas, Adalynn, Braylon, Hendrix, London and Willow. He is also lovingly remembered by many nieces and nephews.
Tom’s faith guided his life, and he now rests in the peace of the Lord he so deeply trusted. His legacy of love, laughter, and strength will live on in all who knew him.
The family will receive friends and family at 10am and a celebration of life with military honors will be held on May 9th at 11:00 a.m at McCrery & Harra Funeral Homes and Crematory, 3710 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington, Delaware 19808.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be made to Wilmington VA Medical Center, c/o CDCE/Voluntary Services, 1601 Wilmington, DE 19805. Note: make payable to “Wilmington VA Medical Center”: https://www.cdceportal.va.gov/donate_online/
For online condolences visit: www.mccreryandharra.com
