Tom Scullen

Tom Scullen, age 81, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Washington, D.C. to Anthony and Ann Scullen, Tom grew up in Silver Spring, Maryland, where he was raised at St. Bernadette’s Parish alongside his brothers and sisters Kathy, Jim, P.J., Charlie, and Mary. Tom attended Good Counsel High School and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Towson State College. After briefly teaching sixth grade at Silver Spring Intermediate School, he joined the Department of the Army in 1968 as an Education Services Counselor at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Over the course of a distinguished 39-year career, Tom served in several leadership roles, including positions with the Army Staff and Civilian Personnel Office and the Office of the Administrative Assistant to the Secretary of the Army. He survived the terrorist attack on the Pentagon on September 11, 2001, and retired in 2007 as Director of the Directorate of Transportation for the U.S. Army Services and Operations Agency. Throughout his life, Tom brought joy to those around him. He was known for his quick wit, clever wordplay, and ability to make people laugh in any situation. He shared his enthusiasm for life generously, especially with his family. Whether loading up the car before sunrise for a day at the beach, creating Christmas magic late into the night, or spending time with his granddaughters, Tom found happiness in making memories with the people he loved. Tom’s generosity extended far beyond his immediate family. He opened his home and his heart to those in need, providing a place to live for many people over the years who became more than guests — they became part of his family and the community he lovingly called the Village at Kathryn Road. Tom had a lifelong love of music, food, and bringing people together. A talented musician with perfect pitch, he played guitar and upright bass throughout his life, performing in the bands Appalachian Springs, Sheepshead Bay, Terra Nova, Martha Doyle Trio, and Never Too Late. Tom shared his music with family and friends at gatherings, holidays, and festivals. He also never turned down a good meal or dessert, and he cherished the traditions and friendships built around food and celebration. In retirement, Tom discovered a passion for Irish dancing. True to form, he embraced it wholeheartedly, attending workshops, festivals, and performances throughout the greater Washington area. He became a regular performer with Tír na nÓg, specializing in traditional set dancing, and brought the same enthusiasm and joy to dancing that he brought to every part of his life. Tom will be deeply missed by his caregiving team Lynn, JoAnn, and Nicole; children Jessica (Justin) and Joshua (Erika); grandchildren Kaela and Raelynn; siblings and in-laws; and his many cousins, nieces, nephews, godchildren, and dear friends who were fortunate to know him. In memory of Tom, please consider making a charitable donation to one of the following organizations: Special Olympics: https://support.specialolympics.org/a/tribute-gifts Alzheimer's Association: https://www.alz.org/ A celebration of Tom’s life will be announced at a future date.

Tom Scullen

November 19, 1944 - July 30, 2026