Thomas Kenefick Obituary

Born on November 17, 1946, in Springfield, Massachusetts, Thomas A. Kenefick passed away on January 2, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service, compassion, and deep love for his community, family, and friends. A lifelong resident of the Springfield area, Tom was a devoted local attorney whose commitment to helping others-often during their most challenging times-was the cornerstone of both his professional and personal life.
Tom's passion for the law and unwavering support for his fellow attorneys were evident through his longtime involvement with the Hampden County Bar Association, where he served as president on multiple occasions. He took great pride not only in offering legal counsel but also in providing a steady, reassuring presence to those who came to him in their moments of need. His friends and colleagues admired his kindness, generosity, and the invaluable mentorship he extended to others.
Beyond the courtroom, Tom cherished every opportunity to spend time with friends and family-enjoying dinners together, relaxing over drinks after work, attending hockey games, and visiting hotels. His warm smile and welcoming spirit made those around him feel instantly at ease.
Tom's commitment to service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be remembered for his devotion to the law, enduring compassion, and unwavering resolve to uplift others -- always accompanied by his dry, sharp wit that brought warmth and humor to even the toughest moments.
He leaves behind the love of his life, Jeanne Schmidt; his children, Caitlin, Tyler, and Brennan; his stepchildren, Thomas and Robert Schmidt; his grandchildren, Leia Kenefick, along with Isabella Castor-Schmidt and Oskar Schmidt; his sister, Deborah; and countless friends and colleagues who will forever cherish his memory.
A wake will be held on Wednesday January 8, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Forastiere Smith Funeral Home in East Longmeadow. A funeral service will follow at Holy Name Church in Springfield on Thursday, January 9, at 10:00 a.m. A burial will be held at a later date at St. Michael's in Springfield.