Thomas Eric Anderson's Obituary
It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Thomas Eric Anderson, October 27, 1960 - June 20, 2024. Tom was a Theatrical Artist - a performer, director, scenographer, designer of costumes, lights, and make-up. He was an educator. Tom was a brother and a friend.
A 1979 graduate of Central Valley High School in Veradale, WA, Tom went on to earn his BA in Theatre from Western Washington University in 1983. His specialty was costume design. Tom furthered his studies and experience in scenography, lights, sound, and costume at Wayne State University in Detroit; where he was awarded his Master of Fine Arts degree in 1989.
Of Tom's many career highlights and accomplishments, it is his time in Scotland where many of his favorite memories reside. Mrs. Kemble's Tempest, Andrea Has Two Boyfriends, 7 Tables for 7 Sins are among the works. He was also moved by the production of My Children! My Africa! at Salisbury University in which he took part as technical director and lighting design. Tom is especially proud of his work with students, the community, and the collegial relations and friendships he acquired over the years.
Tom is predeceased by his parents, Thomas Gordon Anderson and Ruby Aileen Bigger Anderson. As well as his brothers Ronald Roy Smith and Roger David Smith. Tom felt he would be remiss if he did not mention his beloved min-pins: Kira, Alex, Luke, Laren, and Tasha.
Tom is survived by his brother, Richard Walter Smith and his sisters: Pamela Jane Anderson Burlew Bender, Patricia Lee Anderson Woodford, Dawn Leslie Anderson MacDonald, and Debra Ann Anderson Meier. He is proud of the nieces and nephews his siblings brought into his life, especially as they have pursued careers in education, military service, and other endeavors that give back to their respective communities. Tom married twice, Dorene Ball Bahzad and Jennifer Anderson, they were his loves and his friends. He is also survived by his many students and colleagues who cherish the gifts and lessons he has offered over the years. And once again, Tom felt he would be remiss if he did not mention Andrew Heller and Mike Parker.
Thomas will be cremated and his ashes will be taken to his beloved Scotland. He did not wish for any services or memorials, flowers or cards - if you would like to honor his memory in some way please donate to a Scholarship for Theatre students at any University or College, or to a Theatre Program designed for young people. Tom's passion was for the arts, for theatre, and for the people who lived and breathed it.
Arrangements are entrusted to Framptom Funeral Home by the Coales, Federalsburg, Maryland.
What’s your fondest memory of Thomas?
What’s a lesson you learned from Thomas?
Share a story where Thomas' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Thomas you’ll never forget.
How did Thomas make you smile?