Thomas Milton Rew passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by family members on Saturday, March 7, 2026 after a valiant battle with cancer.

Thomas was born to Howard Milton and Dorothy Elizabeth (Sherman) Rew in Cortland, New York on August 31, 1945. As he grew up, Tom worked hard on the family dairy farm, showing his gift for repairing things at a young age. Tom enjoyed teasing his younger brother, Jeff, with his older brother, Dennis. Tom attended Virgil Central High school and graduated in 1963. As soon as he turned 18, Tom joined the Air Force. He served honorably for four years.

While in the military, Tom was introduced to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints by his sergeant. Once given the Book of Mormon, Tom read it in four nights. The sergeant then invited him to church and introduced him to the missionaries. Tom knew he had found the truth and was baptized the following Saturday. He loved the Book of Mormon and often shared his testimony about it.

Shortly after joining the church, Tom was introduced to Myrtle Louise Roberts. They have been great friends ever since. Myrtle chose to serve a mission and a year after Tom’s baptism he chose to serve a mission as well. They both served in the Western States Mission.

Tom returned from his mission in the Fall of 1969. He and Myrtle were married in the Idaho Falls Temple on December 18, 1969. Tom and Myrtle started their family while Tom worked and went to school. They moved around frequently during these years. He attended Ricks College and Utah State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology with an emphasis in Aeronautics in June of 1977. By then, they had 4 children with the 5th on the way.

Tom worked briefly at Thoikol, but was not happy with the long commute that took him away from his family. Tom used his gift for fixing things and worked as a repairman for several years. Tom also worked as a truck driver. He was an excellent example of self reliance and hard work for his children.

Tom and Myrtle ended up in Providence in 1981 where they continued growing their family to 8 children. They loved raising their family in Providence, staying active in their church and community. Tom had many callings over the years, but he especially loved working with the scouts and leading music. Tom always participated in the ward choir. He developed his love for singing at a young age, singing in the church choir with his family.

Tom loved to garden. While the kids were home, the garden took up a large portion of their lot. Even though the garden shrunk over the years, his love of growing things stayed strong. He was determined to grow a garden even as he struggled to keep up physically.

Tom was a lifelong learner. He earned a certificate in drafting and CNA. He also learned some Spanish and sign language. After playing the trombone for years in the Cache Community Band, Tom joined the New Horizons Orchestra and learned to play the violin and viola.

Tom and Myrtle served as church service missionaries, helping in the Hyrum special needs seminary class for the 2014-2015 school year. Tom became a temple worker in the Logan Temple in September 2010. He loved serving in the house of the Lord and was sad to leave because of his illness in October 2023.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his brothers Dennis and Jeff; his wife Myrtle; children Paul Rew, Lucille Phelps, Nephi Rew, Joseph Rew, Louise Hoth, Moroni Rew, Lisa Durrant, and Lynnett Nelson; and by 29 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

The funeral service will be held on Monday, March 16, 2026 at 11:00 AM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located at 309 S Main, Providence. A viewing will take place prior to the funeral at 9:00 AM. Interment will be at the Providence Cemetery.

Memories and condolences may be shared and expressed at www.allenmortuaries.com.