On September 25th, Tom Pettit, a long-time friend of Cabrini Immigrant Services (CIS), Dobbs Ferry, was called home to God. Tom was a tutor, a friend, an advocate and so much more to not only CIS but to countless number of immigrants whom he helped. Tom was selfless, he never counted the cost. Tom taught so many of our students to speak English, to get jobs, find housing, etc. So often, Tom would accompany his clients to court or to a doctor’s appointment. Truly, Tom was a special man.
A wall of tributes to CIS volunteer and friend, Tom Pettit.
On January 6, 2017, CIS dedicated their classroom to Tom Pettit. The celebration began with a ‘Toast for Tom’ where people reminisced about their memories of Tom. Following the toast, a prayer service was held during which time Fr. Edwin, OFM, Cap., Director of Pastoral Care for Cabrini of Westchester, blessed and dedicated the room and plaque which reads:
“This room is dedicated to
Thomas J. Pettit
who personified these words of Mother Cabrini
“…from you will emanate an influence that will benefit and educate in the truest sense of the word –
and so equally great will be the good you have wrought.”
Fr. Edwin Robinson OFM, Cap. offers a blessing during the dedication.
Tom always loved a party and so it was fitting that we followed the dedication with a celebration. Many of our tutors, Tom’s students, some from many years ago as well as some of Tom’s family members attended the celebration.
We know that Tom is looking down on us and is continuing to ask God to bless all the great work that is happening at CIS.