Alfred Thomas Anderson III, lovingly known as Tom, passed away peacefully at his home in Hernando, Florida, on Saturday, April 5, 2025, under the care of Hospice and surrounded by his devoted family. He was 85 years old.
A true Florida native, Tom was born in St. Petersburg to Alfred Thomas Anderson II and Ruth Angus Anderson. A proud graduate of St. Petersburg High School, he went on to attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he earned both his undergraduate and master’s degrees in electrical engineering—an accomplishment that reflected his sharp intellect and deep curiosity about how the world works.
Professionally, Tom built a successful career as an electrical engineer before transitioning into international marketing and sales as a sales engineer, where he thrived by blending his technical expertise with natural charisma.
He met his devoted wife, Judith G. Pelham, in St. Petersburg, and the two were married there, beginning a lifelong marriage that spanned more than 62 years. Their early years together were spent in Pasadena, California but soon they returned to St. Petersburg to raise their children.
Tom and Judi embraced all that coastal life had to offer, living each day with a spirit of adventure and a deep love for the ocean. He was most at home in, on, or near the water—snorkeling through crystal-clear shallows, water skiing with ease, casting a line with friends, or diving below the surface with a spear in hand. Sailing was one of his greatest joys and he didn’t keep these passions to himself—he passed them down with enthusiasm to his children, Michael and Lisa, instilling in them the same excitement for the water, boating, and for embracing the outdoors.
Tom was energized by his family, friends and clients. He and Judi worked as Stephen Ministers, and he taught frequent bible studies sharing his faith in Jesus Christ with others.
He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Michael Thomas Anderson; his parents; and his sister, Martha Fields. Tom is survived by his loving wife, Judith G. Anderson; his daughter, Lisa Cannon (Bryan) of Charlotte, NC; his brother, John Anderson of Virginia; his sister, Mary Lou Lackey of New Hampshire; and his grandchildren, Carson, Kenley, Kors, and Cruz Cannon.
His life will be remembered with love, gratitude, and admiration by all who knew him.
Arrangements are under the care of Chas. E. Davis Funeral Home in Inverness, Florida.
Services were held April 26 at the Cathedral of St. Patrick in Charlotte NC. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Tom’s name go to the cancer research institute of your choice.
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