DELANSON - Deacon Thomas E. Luby 77, of Delanson, died Thursday, Feb. 2, 2017, at St. Peter's Hospital, following a brief illness.

Born Jan. 28, 1940, in Hempstead, Long Island, he was a son of Thomas and Mary (Tully) Luby.

He was a graduate of Hempstead High School and St. John's University College of Pharmacy.

Tom owned and operated Redwing Pharmacy in Middle Island before moving to Unadilla in 1980. Tom continued his career as a pharmacist for Rite Aid in Delhi until he retired in 2010.

In 1980, Tom and his wife, Noel, along with two other couples, established Gilead, a small Christian community under the auspices of the Diocese of Albany. From there, Tom was ordained as a deacon of the Catholic Church in 1986. He served at Sacred Heart Church in Sidney for 29 years. After moving to Delanson, he continued his ministry at Our Lady of Fatima Community in Delanson, where he and his wife are members.

Tom was known for his quiet presence and his quick wit. He was a man of integrity, devoted to his wife and family, his patients and his God.

Survivors include his wife, Noel Ann (Dodd) Luby, to whom he was married Oct. 12, 1963; his children, Maryellen (Kevin) King of West Sand Lake, Thomas Michael (Jennifer) Luby of Needham, Massachusetts, Patricia Noel (Warren) Kilburn of Amsterdam; and his dear friend, Janet Korwan of Delanson. Tom's eight grandchildren were his pride and joy, James King, Victoria King, Colton Luby, Halley Luby, Ashley Luby, Ryder Luby and Angela and Michaela Kilburn. In addition, he is survived by his brother, Stephen (Ann) Luby of San Diego, California; and his sister, Eileen (Brian) Dunne of Abilene, Texas; along with several nieces and nephews. Tom was predeceased by a brother, John "Jack" Luby.

Calling hours will be held from 3 to 7 p.m., Monday, Feb. 6, at the Langan Funeral Home, 327 Main St., Schoharie. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 7, at Our Lady of Fatima R.C. Church, 1735 Alexander Road, Delanson. Burial will follow in Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery, Niskayuna.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Deacon Thomas to the Knights of Columbus Council No. 14961, 6595 Western Turnpike, Delanson, NY 12053.

Please visit www.langanfuneralhome.com to light a candle or leave a special message for Deacon Tom's family.