Obituary of Thomas J. Lyman

Colonie - Thomas J. Lyman, 96, died Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at the Community Hospice Inn in Albany.  Born in Albany, Thomas was the son of the late Stephen Russell Lyman and Catherine Palmer Lyman.  At the age of 17, he enlisted in the United States Navy, proudly serving his country from 1946 to 1948.  He was then employed at B.T. Babbitts, Inc., which is where he met the love of his life, Ada.  In 1966, Thomas joined N.L. Industries in Colonie and when they closed he stayed on with Bechtel National, Inc. until 1993. Affectionately known to his grandchildren as “Pop,” he always wanted to ensure his children and grandchildren lived better lives than he did. Thomas couldn’t resist a good party - especially one where he could spend time with his family and enjoy a cold “Genny.” After retirement, he took pleasure in his long morning walks, often adding to his daily spare change collection along the way. His favorite afternoon activity was relaxing on the porch with a John Wayne movie playing. Thanks to his farmer wife, this city boy became an avid gardener — a passion he continued well into his 90s. Thomas also took great pride in the home he built and maintained for over 70 years.

Thomas was the husband of the late Ada Secor Lyman, father of Deborah Passino of Loudonville, Jane Serritella (Joseph DeGeorge) of Colonie and the late Thomas J. Lyman, Jr.; grandfather of Melissa Passino (Jack Leary), Mark Passino, Jr. (Nicole), Katie Passino and Janelle Serritella (Ben Kubes); great-grandfather of Oliver Thomas Passino; and brother of Dorothy Carras, Paul Lyman and the late Stephen Russell, Jr., Edward and Mary.

Private funeral services are being conducted at the convenience of the family.  For those who wish, memorial donations to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, 3 Oakland Ave., Menards, NY 12204 would be appreciated.