Obituary of Thomas Stephen Ott

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Thomas Stephen Ott. He passed away on Monday, December 29, 2025 at St. Clare’s Hospital in Denville. Thomas was known for his warmth, his quick wit, and his ability to make friends wherever he went. He cared deeply about the people around him and was always willing to help when he could. In his 41 years on Earth, he left an indelible mark, leaving the world a better place than he found it.

As a child, Thomas was very involved in sports in Denville, where he played Little League baseball, PAL basketball, and football with the Denville Blue Angels. Basketball was his favorite. He spent countless hours outside shooting hoops, often wearing his beloved Michael Jordan jersey.

Born in Chicago to Donna and Robert Ott, Thomas held a strong connection to the city and remained a devoted fan of Chicago sports throughout his life, especially the Chicago Bears. He was also a big fan of WWE and loved pop culture and video games, interests that brought him joy and comfort.

During high school in the summer, and upon graduation, Thomas was an employee of the Denville Public Works Department. He later worked as a security officer at several locations. He loved Denville and was friendly with many local shopkeepers, forming genuine connections throughout the community.

 His legacy will live on in the hearts of his beloved family members, his devoted parents, Donna (Smith) and Robert “Bob” Ott; his treasured brothers, Christopher Ott and his wife Tiffany and Brian Ott and his wife Marie; his adored grandmother, Julia (the late Jum) Smith; his cherished nephew, Westley Ott; his loving Aunt & Uncles, Linda Quinn, Bernard Ott, and Stephen Smith; his caring cousins, Amy Herrman and her husband Matthew, Kelly Holmblad and her husband Jeffrey, and Shana Peronti and her husband Michael, and their families; and many more dear extended family and friends.

Although we are deeply saddened by his passing, we take comfort in knowing that he is now reunited in Heaven with his grandparents, Bernard and Louise Ott and grandfather, Jum Smith.

Thomas will be remembered for his kindness, his sense of humor, and the easy, genuine way he connected with others. Words can't fully describe how he will be missed. His contributions to everyone's life will never be forgotten!

In addition to the unforgettable memories held by his family, we invite those who knew Thomas to share their favorite stories, memories, or words of tribute on normandean.com. Thomas touched the lives of many, and we believe his legacy is best honored through the stories and experiences of all who were fortunate enough to know him; let his light shine bright for eternity. If you would like to honor his memory another way, donations are being accepted to The Community Outreach Ministry through St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, 15 Myers Avenue, Denville, NJ 07834.