Tom Gaherty – Born on January 11, 1929, in the small town of Lenox Dale, Tom Gaherty has lived a full and active life that reflects a deep commitment to family, community, and service. At the age of five, he moved with his parents and five siblings to Lee, Massachusetts, where he grew up as the middle child in a lively household of three girls and three boys.

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Tom graduated from Lee High School in 1946 and began working at Tanglewood, where he set stages and maintained the grounds and buildings. His early adult years took a turn when he was drafted into the military in 1951 during the Korean War. Serving with the engineers, Tom's duties involved restoring and reconstructing training facilities following the war. He was honorably discharged in 1953.

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That same year he was drafted, Tom married his first wife, and they shared 40 years together, raising two children—a son and a daughter. Later in life, Tom found love again and married his second wife in 1996. They enjoyed 22 years of marriage. He is also a proud grandfather to two grandchildren, a boy and a girl.

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After his military service, Tom dedicated nearly four decades to the electric utility industry. He began working for what was then Western Mass Electric, later known as Northeast Electric, and today

recognized as Eversource. As a field technician and area coordinator, Tom served the community with diligence for 38 years before retiring at the age of 62.

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Music has always played a special role in Tom's life. In 1957, he joined a local group called the Country Cousins, where he served as both lead singer and lead guitarist. For 20 years, he brought joy to many through his performances. Though arthritis eventually made it difficult for him to continue playing guitar, his love for music has never waned.

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After the passing of his wife, Tom experienced a fall while living alone and was temporarily placed in rehab at Lee Healthcare. Recognizing the need for more support, his family encouraged him to move to The Landing at Laurel Lake. Though it took him a few months to adjust, Tom now enjoys the community and the routine that brings meaning and joy to his daily life.

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What Tom enjoys most at The Landing are the activities that keep him engaged—especially the drumming circle and integrative movement classes. Staying active has always been a central part of his life, and he encourages younger generations to do the same. His advice? "Stay active." He reflects, "Keeping movement will really help as you grow older. Kids these days are way too attached to electronics—they don't move as much as we did."

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Tom's life is a beautiful reminder of the value of resilience, service, family, and staying engaged—no matter your age.