In loving memory of Thomas Lillagore, Sr.
(1939 - 2012)
The Delran Emergency Squad regrets to announce the passing of Thomas Lillagore, Sr., 14-year member of the squad (since 1997), current member of the Board of Ambulance Commissioners, former line officer including Chief Engineer through 2009 and veteran of over 6,000 calls. Thomas also served as a Detective Sgt. for Cinnaminson Township Police Department from July 1969 to July 1998. He also was a Patrolman at the Burlington County Bridge Commission.
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  • The things I will always remember Pop by is working with him in the kitchen at 232 listening to his stories, working at the gas station he would always stop in and say hi, and he would always tell me that he was very proud of me. I miss you very much Pop.

    JD Bauer

  • I'm going to miss your humor and beers in A.C. You were a Cops Cop and a man's man. I'm glad I had the pleasure of knowing you. RIP my friend.

    Bob Hess

  • Lillagore Family, Tom, a childhood neighbor(Maple Shade); highschool friend and a TWIN; so glad we had the opportunity to enjoy Toms humor; Tom's star shines in the heavens forever!!

    kay (gralick) & Denny Wentz

  • Pop was the first to welcome me to the Delran First aid squad. He went out of his way to make me feel welcome and a valued member of the squad. Our talks were a highlight of my week. I will miss this truly generous man.

    Dave Flynn

  • I first became accainted with the Lillagores through my mother when I started to babysit for Tommy and LeeAnn. I remember meeting Mr. Lillagore - at the Sta. 232 on Alden Ave. where he and Suzie made the most amazing food. I found myself drawn to the kitchen by the wonderful smell but stayed for the laughs I shared with him. I remember thinking how much of nice teddy bear-like man he was. Fast foward to adulthood when I joined 239 and he became Pop. I've only had the oppertunity to ride one call with him; but I remember it like it was yesterday. He and Denny were in the front "Fighting" on the way to the call, we got on scene and it was all business, at the ER while Denny and I gave report Pop was chatting it up with nurses - promising to bring back coffee, and on the way back the "Fighting" began where it had stopped!!! It didn't matter what kind of day/night I had because undoubtedly if Pop was there I would always leave the building with smile. I'll miss his infectious smile and laughter, his kind words of encouragement, and just him. Pop is a tresure to all who have had the privaledge to have met him. I'm sure he'll find the Whistler's in the sky and keep the seats warm and drinks cold for everyone. Until we meet again my friend.

    Amanda Whitfield

  • Although I didnt know Pop all that long, I do know that he was loved deeply by family and friends. I know he had a huge impact on Kennys growing up and I thank you for being there for him. You will be sadly missed and memories will remain with us forever.

    Kenny & Charlotte

  • I've known the Lillagore family for many years. Susie and Pop worked countless hours at the hall/#232. They were hard working people, generous and outgoing. Pop; I going to miss him very very much. We would just sit at the squad and talk and talk; about everything and nothing. I love him and I will always remember all the things we did together and laughing and laughing. His jokes, e-mails, teeth ect. What a man. Lova Ya Pop

    Angie Bauer

  • I always looked forward to working the overnight at the Squad when I knew Pop would be coming on bright and early the next morning. Great discussions and walks down law enforcement's memory lane. You better know you are definitely missed and we honor you in your absence. Thanks for all your encouragement.

    Dave Bigley

  • You all can thank Lee Ann for pop. It was her idea that he join 239 after he retired from Cinnaminson PD. At his service many said, "sorry for your loss". Well I have to say to all you at 239, I'm sorry for YOUR loss. I had him for 45 years, you guys only had him for 14. Either way we all are better people, no matter how long we knew him, for being his friend. Thanks for welcoming my Dad into your family.

    Tom Jr.

  • Tommy, you were the best of the best. You will always be in our hearts. We met in the 70s and contined the freindship, your possitive attitude and personallity made many of us a better person for having known you. God Bless my Friend!

    Harry (Skip) E. Smith III

  • Pop always came to work early, around 5:15 or so. Most mornings he and I would be the only two in the building. I'd make it a point to walk over and we'd have a few minutes to ourselves to just talk about work, our families, things in the news. I'm really gonna miss those mornings. And I'm really gonna miss you, Pop. You were the best. A man who never failed to put a smile on your face. The world is a lesser place without you but we are all better people for having had you in our lives.

    Murph

  • Tom will surely be missed by all. I had the privilege of being his step son for some 30 plus years. He always treated me as if I was his biological son and I always felt like he was my dad. He taught me how to hunt. I will always remember him being there when I shot my first buck, a 6 pointer. How to fish. Who could forget the countless trips to Oyster Creek fishing. I could go on and on about all the things he has done for me. He was a well respected man and I am sure he will have one hell of a send off. Thanks for all of your support and caring in this time of need, especially for the support you have given my mom Susie. She greatly appreciates it. Thanks again.

    Mark Schenberger Sr.

  • A bright star was extinguished when Tommy left this earth. A lovely gentleman with an amazing sense of humor. I think he was never funnier than when he was doing his "Ding" thing!! I am truly blessed to have called Tommy my friend. My love and prayers go out to the Lillagore family, and the 239 family.

    Helen Stellwag

  • Popadoodle! That is what I always called him. He was more than a friend to me he was my family. He was always there for me when I needed anything. He always had my back, and always made me smile. He did not just make work fun for me, but he made life fun!! I remember one time we were going to call with burger king crowns on our head, and he had his "famous" fake teeth in, and we sang some "oldies" song on the way to the call. It was one of the most fun times with him. It was hilarous!! My heart is broken but i am humbled to know that I have him looking down on me! He will always be in my heart and the in the hearts of everyone that loved him!!! May he Rest In Peace. <3

    Dianna Horner

  • Several years ago Tom was on the crew that transported me to the hospital. He sat with me and talked and help make a stressfull situation bearable. He earned his wings that day!

    Glenn W McCurdy

  • No worries pop that Saturday crew will be there 6am sharp this week and there's no fighting about it breakfast is at the nook.

    Josh Abbott

  • Far to many memories to tell. All i know is he became my father in life when i needed it the most. from killing my first deer to catching my first weakfish. seeing him there when I graduated Marine Corp bootcamp was special. Also being there when I graduated the NJDOC corrections academy. Tom I will miss you so much. I'm glad you enjoyed our dinner on that Friday night. Mark Jr was so happy to see you and talk to you while being home from OSU. I am so glad we did dinner that night. God bless you and I know the heavens are safe now. Love always.

    Mark Schenberger Sr

  • I first met Pop the day I walked into the Delran Fire Dept. He greeted me with the same simle and grin he met everyone with. That was the thing about Pop he didn't care if you knew him for years or you just met he was interested in you and your life. As I began to hang around the firehouse and help him and Suzie and the rest of the Lillagore family up in the hall we all became closer and closer till they were more like family. I'll never forget running calls with Tommy at the squad, no matter how serious the call he always found time to say hello to the police, the neighbors, or the family. Everyone knew Pop and Pop knew everyone. I'm glad we got to share your last shift together, I'll cherish that day till the end of time. Rest in peace Poppie. I love ya.

    Brian Baiada

  • I remember working holiday crew with Pop and Linda on 4th of July and we watched an all day marathon showing of "Swamp People" one of both our favorite History channel shows. Linda was a good sport. Pop said are you hungry, and he ordered and bought Pizza Hut pizzas for us. Pop listened to every silly story I ever told him and always said, "Is that right." He really listened and cared. R.I.P. Pop. Lots of love to your family and our #239 family.

    Diana Graham, EMT-B

  • As I sit here and stare at this screen I try to think of what to say about Pop, but am at a complete loss. There are no words that can explain the impact Pop had on so many people and what a genuine person he truly was. He had the ability to touch the lives of so many the minute you met him. Today you left us with an empty feeling that will not easily heal. Pop you will be missed so much, but leave us with reassurance that you're in a better place. My deepest condolences go to the Lillagore family. Rest in peace my friend.

    Steve Walter, Lieutenant Delran EMS

  • Oh dear Tommy, where do I start. Over 15 years of working with you there are WAY TO MANY things to share. As my EMS Partner: YOU WERE MY PROTECTOR. I always knew you had my back and that I was safe. no matter how bad the call was, you would never let me get hurt. you were also my comedian, no matter how bad things got, I could count on you to make me laugh till I cried. As my friend: YOU WERE MY CONFIDANT. Loyal in every way. There was nothing I couldnt share with you. You were always there to give me sound advice(as much as I didn't want to hear it sometimes) I was telling you for a reason. You were honest, never one to mix words. I always knew you only cared and wanted the best for me. I will never forget your beautiful laughing blue eyes, whether they were laughing with me or at me. LOL (I guess I will finally forgive you for letting that man in the bathroom after I asked you to watch the door cause it wouldnt lock.) You were my Rock, My Partner, My Friend, My Protector. I am soooo glad you were a part of my life. I expect you always will be, even though now from a better place where I cannot see you, I will still hear you in the woods through the breeze calling from your deer stand, giving me advice. I will still laugh when you pull some unexpected prank on me, and I will still look above and confide in you. So I am not going to say I will miss you. I know you are ALWAYS here with me.

    Denise Horner

  • Tommy I will miss you very much. I will especially miss our chats at 5:30 am when you were coming on duty and I was ready to leave from being on overnight. You never missed the opportunity to ask how is your daughter. She has been through so much for a young girl. You always gave me words of encouragement and hope. I will miss you.

    Paula Marsiglia

  • I don't even know where to begin...my heart aches. I will miss you so much Tom. We both started with Delran Emergency Squad together in 1997. You were a great and very caring friend to me. Always greeting me with a kiss on the cheek and a sincere "How are you feeling". Tom and I were riding partners for awhile. I always looked forward to my days riding with 'Pop'. I knew there would be good conversation and plenty of laughs. This world has lost a wonderful man and it makes me so sad. I remember that silly skit you and Libby did at one of our banquets and those funny bubba teeth you always had with you. I am going to miss you, but I know in my heart that when I look up toward the heavens you will be watching over all that love you.

    Chris Shafer

  • I have been thinking for several days now on what to write. So many memories have come to mind and I would be here all night writing them all down. You were not only a great friend, mentor, hero, but a brother to me. Like you wrote in my card when I graduated from the Police Academy "Brother in Blue". I will always remember the coversations we had and all of the times you made me laugh. Most of all I will never forget the honor I was given of taking the last ride in our ambulance with you. I will truely miss you Pop. Until we meet again, I know you will be watching over all of us and protecting us like you always have. I love you Pop.

    Michael Lynch

  • Pop always had a smile, loved making people laugh, and gave his heart to all those who needed help. He was one of the best guys you ever wanted to meet. Love ya always Pop

    Diana

  • The hard-working, persistent, and never stopping attitude and ethics of Pop was something too difficult to overlook. My initial steps into a close-knit group of great people that could very well be considered a family involved Pop, Susie, Leeanne, Josh, the rest of the Lillagore family, and many more. Late nights helping these great people and working side-by-side with Pop and Susie to pull off weddings and other events at the hall was the beginning of a long time relationship that I was able to have with tommy. He somehow even managed to make discussion at my first ever job at Shoprite. My manager Wayne, a member of Tommy's family always had another story to share of him when I walked into work. Throughout the years to come were many months of working shifts with him. The most involved and critical incident that we pulled up on to a new person like myself only proved to be another niche in his book; as he routinely called timeout for a few seconds so that he could shoot the ! with the other guys on the scene no matter how far traffic was backed up down the highway. Cause after all, he frankly didn't care what you thought. Another thing, I'm not sure how O&J's will keep afloat without the regular brake jobs needed on our trucks from Tommy's two footer driving habits, stemming from his years of law enforcement at Cinnaminson, capped with the most interesting, and well, I still don't believe half of them, things he got himself wrapped up in during his early working days with work partners that he still regularly visited and partied with. Something I thought was so great. But that's what Tommy was best at. Making everything the most enjoyable it could be. Working partners comprised of a man who already completed a full career's worth of work and than some, paired with a rookie when matched to his experience always kept me and him on our toes. But after slouching down in the seat next to him on the way back from the call it sunk in that Tommy was there to help you and share his experiences to make you a better person and worker, and that was all. The relationship between Pop and his Grandchildren was something I was jealous of. Everyone wishes of a long -time, experienced-filled relationship like that. In addition, the footsteps that young Tommy is following in the ranks of his career that Pop once walked will only make him a stronger and greater person than he already is. Everyone has a lasting memory when it comes this time. Here's mine: A few weeks ago at our work Christmas party that I was organizing at a restaurant, Pop was the first to arrive that night, Imagine that!!! I've never had the opportunity to sit down with Tommy 1 on 1 and have a beer with him. This was my first chance and I was glad to enjoy the few minutes we had before everyone else got there to enjoy and reaffirm our friendship. It proved to be most memorable, and even more so now. Thanks Pop.

    Ill be at the Breakfast Nook this weekend to see you, Pop. You better be there. Love you.

    Corey J. Hullings

  • There are few people in life where you can say that person is 'good people'. Tommy Lillagore was one of them. Always with a kind and caring word, always worried about others before himself, always willing to come in early and stay late, Tommy was just 'good people' and he epitomized what the members of the Delran Emergency Squad are all about. I am a better person for having known Tommy and he will be missed. Regards to the Lillagore family and may he rest in peace.

    Brian Solomon, President Delran EMS

  • Tom, you were a good friend and partner. I will never forget the great times we had, and never for get that. I will not forget those memories, of the dinner when we played Denise and Leeann. It was an honor to know you and being part of my life. "YOU ARE MY SUNSHINE MY ONLY SUNSHINE. PEACE

    LIBBY

  • How to start, I met Pop in the early eighties. If He wasn't not patrolling near my High School Girl friend's house , Places I work in Cinnaminson or at the Saint Charles Carnival. Pop would always stop to say hi and crack a joke to make you smile. Back then I had long hair and Tom would never treat me any different. I seen Mr Lillagore here and there threw the years , but really got to know him the last four at DES. I remember my first call it was with Pop and Kraig they were fighting calling each other a few not so nice words. I though to myself oh what the hell did I get into later I found out they were just joking with each other. That's the way he was, making light of the situation. Pop I miss when come in the morning asking where's my @#$% coffee old man and you telling me to get it myself,even thou you knew I don't drink coffee. But to say what my Fondist Memory of you Pop was every time I got to spend just a little time with you just talking or joking around I love you Pop Thank you for being my friend and in my life I'm a better person for that. Thank you also for taking my to the hospital with Kraig when I was sick or I would not be here right now. You will always thoughts and prayers as long as I live. And you better have my COFFEE OLD MAN When I see you next, But I'll take a Pepsi.

    Richard Grockenberger JR

  • I was first introduced to Pop and the Lillagores when I joined the Fire Department. Pop and his wife Suzie cleaned at the firehouse and their grandson, Josh, was a firefighter. Unfortunately, during that time my relationship to Pop was limited to passing greetings at the firehouse. It was not until I became a part time employee at the Emergency Squad that I got to know the man everyone called "Pop." I had worked with him for only the past 12 months, but it seems like so much longer now. He was truly the definition of a "great guy." He was many things to many people, a family member, coworker, and for many a nameless face that arrived to help you, whether he came in an ambulance or police car (though many of us will remember that he often thought the ambulance WAS a police car). But, most of all, he was a friend. A friend that always had your back, and for me, a friend that I could look to for wisdom and advice. He had a story for every situation, and a joke for every rough day. He always had a joke for me on Monday morning, at 6am sharp. He made sure every day started with a laugh. I regret we never made that trip to a casino he often talked to me about, whether it was to Atlantic City or his favorite spot, Las Vegas. Pop, I'm not working Saturday, but I'll be meeting the guys at the Breakfast Nook. And we are going to keep a seat open for you, even though it will make me sick to my stomach to see it empty, but I know you'll be there eating with us, that is until you get up talk to every person in the place. I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to be your partner and call you my friend. No one will ever forget the service you provided to the many communities you served. I know you will always be riding in the rig with us, probably with your hands on the wheel and two feet on the gas pedal. I'm going to miss you you buddy. Keep the beer cold for us, we will all see you soon.

    Ryan Rowbottom

  • As I sit here wondering what memory to share so many come to mind. I have known Tommy for about 35 yrs. There was never a moment when he didn't make me laugh. One thing that comes to mind is that before he even met Susie, me, Tommy, Patty and another friend went to a laundromat with him in Pennauken so that he could do his laundry. As he opened the dryer door we pushed him in the dryer (and yes back in those days he did fit in the dryer LOL). We shut the door and turned the dryer on and from that day forward we nicknamed him "Tumbles". I have so many fond memories of him and hanging out at the Empire Diner. I could go on and on about all the pranks he use to pull on me especailly one when we were all sitting at the Diner eating breakfast and he pulls out a picture of an autopsy. Needless say I screamed and lost my appetite as Tommy sat there laughing so hard that tears came rolling down his face. Tommy (and Susie) have always been there when I needed them especially back in 1981 when I needed them the most. I will never forget all the fun times and pranks that I have had with Tommy and I'm truly blessed to have had him in my life. I love you Tommy and you will be in my thoughts everyday. You will be truly missed. May you R.I.P. my good friend!!!!

    Karen Lilley

  • This is a very sad day for me personally, I lost my Friend, My Mentor, My Partner, and my bartering pal. He ment more to me like a father figure, and as proud of me when I took his place as Chief Engineer, but we could also talk - on such a family friend level. My greatest memory was will be the last (but there are so many) Saturday December 31st, working crew with Lyman, Denney and Pop, playing a great game of Texas Hold'em and after crew celebrating the New Years Eve Night with a beer among 4 friends, something i will cherish - Just like him in my heart forever..... Love Ya Pal I will deeply miss you !!!

    Kraig M McLaughlin

  • Pop you will be missed brother, playing poker and chugging beers, along with phenomenal relationship advice... We'll be at the nook Saturday I'm sure you'll be checking if we are there.

    Rob Lyman

  • Tom was as comfortable with all age groups as he made them comfortable with him, whether they are the newest member of the squad or one of us 'old farts'. He always had something nice to say about everyone and never a bad word. We will all miss him and I wish to send my condolences to his family.

    Andy Gleason

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