Thomas Peter "Tom" O’Keefe passed away peacefully after a brief illness on September 21, 2025 at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Palliative Care Unit in Sydney, N.S. at the age of 68 with Veronica, his wife and best friend, by his side. Born and raised in Glace Bay, he was the son of James (Jim) and Jessie (MacNeil) O'Keefe.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Veronica (Clements) of 47 years, and by his children Chris (Lorelle), Glace Bay; Jen (Derek), Maine; and Matt, Glace Bay.

He is also survived by his siblings, Rose Anne (Fred), Terry (Amy), John (Alison), Rod (Heather); sisters-in-law Charlene, Cathy (Gerry), Paula (Kevin), and brothers-in-law Allan (Sarah) and Brad.

Tom was predeceased by his parents, Jim and Jessie O’Keefe of Glace Bay, parents-in-law Buddy and Murdie Clements of Glace Bay, and brother-in-law Mike Kennedy.

His memory will be cherished, and kept alive, by his 7 grandchildren, each of whom he shared a unique and special bond; Morgan (Allan), Brenna, Keira, Nathan, Molly, Emma and Max. He loved his time spent with each of them and attending their many sporting events whether in person or virtually.

He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends whom he considered part of his family.

He was a music lover from a young age, and this love of music grew as the years went on becoming a talented musician, songwriter, producer and mentor to many in the East Coast music scene, always supporting and encouraging fellow musicians. He could be found many evenings having a kitchen party or sitting on a porch, whether at home or in Mira, playing the fiddle or guitar for others to enjoy. Tom spent time as a member of the board for the ECMAs, transition board for the Celtic Colours Festival, as well as many other advisory roles. He was a creative mind who has written hundreds of songs and fiddle tunes, including writing the song, “Sons of Steel” for a CBC documentary about the Sydney Steel Plant. Of his extensive musical journey, he was most fond of sharing his love of playing both with and for his family and friends, and he especially treasured the time spent playing with his sons.

A goalie in his younger years, Tom later became involved with Glace Bay Minor Hockey as a coach and then President of the association, before moving on to become Chair, Minor Hockey Council with Hockey N.S., and he always enjoyed watching his children, and then grandchildren play the game he loved.

He was a man of faith, and stayed involved with many aspects of the parish over his years; he also developed relationships with many clergy members whom could be found visiting at his home for tea and a conversation. During his time with us, Tom held many fond memories with the friends, business associates and musical colleagues he made along the way. Above all, his proudest achievement was being a father and grandfather. He was a true, devoted family man.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the many healthcare workers for their care during his illness, and to Dr Gordon Spencer, and the staff at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital An Cala Palliative Care Unit; you helped make this difficult time easier on the family, and we cannot thank you enough for your care and compassion. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Palliative Care Unit at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital or the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Cremation has taken place. Visitation is Thursday, September 25 from 6-8 pm in V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, 16 Reserve Street, Glace Bay. The funeral mass will be celebrated on Friday at 10 am in Holy Cross Church, Glace Bay, followed by a reception in the lower level of the church. Fr. Norman MacPhee presiding. Interment in St. Anthony’s Cemetery.

On line condolences to the family can be expressed at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca

“I will walk in the shadow of the night wind

When the trees are alive with their songs

I will gather all the memories together

And the night wind will carry us along”