Henry Pancoast Obituary

Henry Thomas Pancoast

February 25, 1945 - June 2, 2025

Henry Thomas Pancoast, age 80, of Egg Harbor Township, passed away peacefully in his sleep on the evening of Monday, June 2, 2025, at Meadowview Nursing Home while under hospice care, with his loving family by his side. Henry was a devoted husband, father, pop-pop, and friend - a proud veteran whose warm smile and kind heart lit up every room and left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Born on February 25, 1945, in Chester, PA, to Charles and Rose Pancoast, Henry, affectionately known as "Big Tom", was known for both his big heart and his impressive jump shot. He began developing his basketball talents early on, eventually becoming a standout player at Holy Spirit High School, where he graduated in 1963. His passion and skill took him to Decatur Baptist College in Texas, where he received the honor of Junior College All-American. That success paved the way for an outstanding athletic career at Furman University in South Carolina.

In 1968, Tom enlisted in the US Army and served his country valiantly at Cam Rahn Bay in Vietnam. After returning home, Tom hit the jackpot of a lifetime - not in the lottery, but in love - when he met the captivating Joanne on a blind date. Though she was hesitant at first, she agreed to a second date, and something clearly clicked. Their romance blossomed, leading to wedding bells in 1970, the arrival of two lively sons, and a joyful marriage that would span 55 wonderful years. Tom spent much of his career working in the vibrant casinos along the Atlantic City Boardwalk. Over the years, he took on many roles - slot attendant, dealer, floor manager, and surveillance officer - becoming a familiar and trusted face in an era when the Boardwalk was at its brightest.

Big Tom loved deeply - his family, his country, a good game on TV, and the dream of hitting the lottery (though that one never quite panned out). He took great interest in tracking gas prices like the stock market and cherished a sunny day on the golf course, preferably with unlimited mulligans. A kindhearted and generous soul, Tom believed in being on time for everything and was well-known for his booming, infectious laugh - especially when it followed the unmistakable sound of a well-timed fart.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Joanne Hartman Pancoast; their two sons, TJ and Jon, and TJ's wife, Cynthia; as well as his cherished granddaughters, Gwendolyn and Nicolette. He is also survived by his brother, Charles Pancoast, and a large extended family who loved him deeply.

The family would like to thank all the nurses, aides, and staff at Meadowview Nursing Home for their kindness and outstanding care during this past year.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to: Diabetes Training Camp c/o Dr. Matthew Corcoran, 109 N. Mansfield Ave., Margate, NJ 08402

Service and burial will be a private ceremony at the convenience of the family.