ForeverMissed
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This memorial website was created in memory of our loved one, Thomas Dykes Sr. 68 years old, born on August 2, 1951 in Philadelphia, PA and passed away on April 4, 2020. The man with many talents will be remembered forever. 

Family & Friends due to state and federal guidance on gatherings due to the current global pandemic, the family will not have a public service. We certainly understand this changes the way we grieve and mourn our beloved Thomas Dykes, Sr. A private viewing will be held for the immediate family only and a Celebration of Life will be held for family and friends at a later date to honor his wishes. 


Reflections of Life


Born and raised in South Philadelphia, Tom's belief in God began at the age of 12 years old when he was baptized and joined Light of the World Chapel under the leadership of Minister Thomas Ridley. He received his education from the Philadelphia School District and was a graduate of Bok Area Vocational Technical School in 1969. 

At the age of 19, he enlisted in the United States Navy. He was assigned to the Helicopter Division and established a reputation for professionalism and dedication to duty. His continuous contribution and impact lead him to be acknowledged for his versatility and outstanding performance and named Sailor of the Quarter in September 1973. This was just the beginning of his career. 

After Tom's four years of service at the Naval Air Facility, he went to work for the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard as a Journeymen. Then later went to work at Boeing as a Transmission Mechanic and worked on helicopters for 7 years. Later he worked as a Construction Superintendent at Levy Construction for about 22 years. At the age of 64, he retired.  

Many who knew Tom, can agree he was a hard worker. Tom would never let anything get in the way of him achieving more. He took pride in faith and life's experiences which earned him many accolades:  

  • Plaque from Southern Council of Navy League of the U.S.
  • Apprenticeship certification that qualified him as a skilled Journeyman Shipwright in       Pennsylvania and Philadelphia Naval Shipyard.
  • Various commendations that recognized his high-level skills and craftsmanship. 
  • Outstanding Employee of the Month while working as a Transmission Mechanic B.
  • Certificate of Special Recognition that prevented a major mechanical failure. 
  • Team of the Month for producing high quality mechanical components.
  • Various Certificates of Merits and Awards for Outstanding Service at Boeing Company.
Community Involvement:
Tom was extremely passionate about mentoring the youth. He made the commitment and joined MEN Empowering Nations to mentor young boys between the ages of 10 and 18. Not only was he a Mentor, he was also the editor to MEN Newsletter. As a boy, Tom was a member of the Boys and Girls Club and also a Boy Scout so he knew right then, how becoming a mentor can impact the youth. His goal was to understand the boy’s day-to-day challenges and connect with them in a way that would make a positive impact on their personal growth and development. 

Reflecting on Tom's Life, he was many things, he endured many things, and traveled to many places. Not only was he a father, husband, grandfather, uncle and brother, he was also an avid storyteller, a Mentor and Author of 
"What God Has Brought Me Through" which is an inspiration to others. 

Thomas, "The man of many talents" is survived by his wife Linda Dykes of 47 years, daughters Michelle Dykes, Jennifer Dykes, Thomas Dykes, Jr. of Sicklerville, NJ; six grandchildren; Donte, Deja, Nichelle, Alan, Anthony and Lynda; two great-grandchildren Kai and Jayla; sisters Joanne Dykes, Betty Eaddy, Thomasina Bryant (twin sister) Joan Dykes (sister-in-law); brothers Joseph Dykes and Eric Dykes and many nieces and nephews.

April 4
April 4
Today marks four years, Dad! I was going through my phone about a week or so ago and saw the last few messages that you had left for me. It was sad to look/listen, but at least you've been in a better place. I've been stumbling onto more classical music on YouTube and even in the orchestras that I've been playing in and I wish I could share it all with you like I used to. You always pop up in mind though when I listen to different pieces. You rest well - Love you!
April 4
April 4
PopPop!! I don’t even know what to say. 4 years is a lot. And it feels like yesterday still so is it really? I’m missing you so much as I get older and gain new experiences and wisdom on my journey. I wish you were here to run through em all. I’m heavily missing our talks and I need them so much lately. I love you and hope you are shining and being serenaded by only the best heavenly violinists.
August 2, 2023
August 2, 2023
I can’t believe another year has passed that you are gone. I will forever remember all the great times we’ve had over the years and everything you’ve taught me. Man! LIFE IS HAPPENING FOR REAL these days and I wish you were here. I miss your guidance so much. Well, Happy Birthday! Love and miss you forever.
August 2, 2023
August 2, 2023
FOR MY TWIN, ANOTHER YEAR I AM BLESSED TO CELEBRATE THIS BIRTH- DAY. BUT IT BRINGS BACK THE FEELINGS OF HOW MUCH I MISS YOU.NOT BEING ABLE TO SAY HEY TOM !! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU. I JUST KNOW THAT YOU ARE SLEEPING IN PEACE.   LOVE AND MISS YOU ALWAYS ,
April 4, 2023
April 4, 2023
My big brother I still can’t believe your gone. I’ll always hold our fun times together in my heart!! ❤️

As you would say after the end of our phone calls…… this is poppy one out and I would say this is poppy two out !

Rest In Peace with our Heavenly Father
August 7, 2022
August 7, 2022
Well Tom, another birthday that I can't call you to share.rest in peace my twin.i miss you, and will always love you in my heart forever.
August 3, 2022
August 3, 2022
Happy birthday bro. Dykes.  I miss working on cars with you.
August 2, 2022
August 2, 2022
Happy Birthday Dad! It’s been two years now that you’ve been gone. I miss you and hope you are resting well. Keep looking out for us. Love you!
June 19, 2022
June 19, 2022
On this Day I want to wish you a very Happy Father’s Day as you’re heavily missed every other day under the sun. There’s not a day where u aren’t apart of me and my heart. I can feel your energy every time I want to talk to you. I want to tell you about things. My growth in life and understanding. I want to show you my world and all that it feels you’re missing because I can’t physically see you anymore. Your great grand is getting so big and I wish he had all the time to learn from and love you as much as I do. Of all days this one’s the hardest because I miss the joy you instilled in to the world and into my heart. I love and miss you so very much.
- Grandson
April 4, 2022
April 4, 2022
Hey Dad, I can’t believe it’s been two years today. I look at our picture every single day and wonder what will be our next project. Its hard sometimes to be excited about projects because it’s just not the same without you. I really miss you but I know you are right here in spirit to guide me through it all. Love you, please continue to look over us all.
April 4, 2022
April 4, 2022
You will always be in our hearts and minds. Your friendship and knowledge are invaluable.
April 4, 2022
April 4, 2022
Hello Uncle T. Now I know you have your big sister my mother with you!! Missing you both. Love you both Continue to Relax in peace
April 4, 2022
April 4, 2022
You’ll always be missed.  Thanks for all the wisdom and friendship.  
April 4, 2022
April 4, 2022
Good Morning Dad! It has been two years now since you’ve been gone. Sometimes here at home when it’s quiet I think I hear you calling my name but you’re not there. I really hope you liked the music I played for you last month when I had gone to see you. It is rough finding music that I know you’d appreciate with me and I can’t share it with you and see your reaction. Love you Dad and please continue looking out for us ❤️
December 25, 2021
December 25, 2021
Merry Christmas Dad! Christmas is not the same without you but I know that you are watching over all of us. It’s funny how the other day I started to sing a Christmas song. You know I rarely sing the songs unless it’s Santa Baby but I knew you were here so I carried on. Lol! I love this time of year. Love you forever ❤️
August 2, 2021
August 2, 2021
Happy Heavenly Birthday Dad!!! Love you forever. ❤️
August 2, 2021
August 2, 2021
Happy Birthday .   I can only imagine what the party is like in heaven.
April 7, 2021
April 7, 2021
To brother Dykes and all that miss him.  You’re missed, but not missing.  You taught us all valuable different lessons based on what we needed to learn from God.  You did Gods work to the end by honoring your vows and made sure your wife was good.  A major lesson you taught us/me was to make sure you have things in order on paper...  For that I say thank you.  I also during this time would like to say thank you to brother Dykes wife Mrs. Dykes for allowing us all to share a little of what she has been blessed with for 47+ years.   Amen...
April 6, 2021
April 6, 2021
One year has passed, and I still can't believe ur not with us anymore.but I thank god for the memories of our pass together.  OH BOY!! what times we had.forever will miss you. TOMO.
April 4, 2021
April 4, 2021
It’s been a very long year since Uncle passed away. Today’s posting of pictures chronicles the many good times when he was with us. Continued prayers for my aunt and cousins who carry on in his absence. 
April 4, 2021
April 4, 2021
One year later and it still feels fresh and unreal like you’re not really gone. In actuality you’re not. Every time I load up YouTube and see an interesting classical arrangement of a piece of music I know you’d like, I think of you and your reaction towards it. The same goes when I see Instagram posts. I itch to show you what I come across but now I can’t. I miss you Dad. I’m glad we all got to go and see you today and also it be on Easter Sunday. Rest easy, we’ll talk again soon! \o/ <3
April 4, 2021
April 4, 2021
Dykes, the most handiest guy I've ever known. Thank you for teaching me so many things in just a few years. You are deeply missed Brother!
April 4, 2021
April 4, 2021
My cousin Derrick sent the song, “My Way” by Frank Sinatra to my mom this morning. I remember hearing my dad sing this song. ❤️
April 4, 2021
April 4, 2021
It's been a year,and you are still in our hearts, minds and prayers.
Your life, love and influence are surely missed.
February 7, 2021
February 7, 2021
I will never forget brother Dykes because he was so inspiring to the boys of Men Empowering Nations Mentoring Group. His background, talents, and ability to not complain in the midst of crisis was a Blessing. We talked about the military, civil rights, the importance of education, women, etc. He was a true man of God that will be truly miss. I salute you my brother in Christ with Love,
Bro. Virgil
August 3, 2020
August 3, 2020
Happy Heavenly Birthday to you, Bro. Dykes. You are missed but, never forgotten.
August 2, 2020
August 2, 2020
Birthday without you tom.i will forever miss you my twin.may you forever sing with the angels.
August 2, 2020
August 2, 2020
Happy birthday to brother Dykes, our conversations are truly missed. 
June 6, 2020
June 6, 2020
I usually sat 1 row behind Tom & Linda when I attended 8 AM worship at BBCofNJ. I always looked forward to seeing and talking to Tom before service started. We talked about a lot of things, bowling, flying, drama (as in BBC Acts of Faith). Tom had an interest in all of these activities, and I tried to get him to join me in each one. Tom was going to do it too.
Tom told me about a book he wrote, I got the info from him, and I'm going to buy his book.
I really enjoyed swapping stories with Tom.
I'm sorry his teaching schedule didn't allow he & Linda to join us in the BBCofNJ Bowling League. I know we would have had a blast.
I only knew Tom for a few short years. But it was long enough to know that Tom was a great man, and I truly miss him.
My condolences to Linda and the family. You are in my thoughts and prayers. May our Lord and Savior Jesus comfort you.
April 19, 2020
April 19, 2020
It’s been awhile since we’ve talked.  I miss hearing your voice when we talked in person or on the phone about cars, life and how good God is.  Yes you are the man of many talents.  To me you were a brother among brothers who exemplified manhood.   You’ve shown us how to make sure we have our stuff in order.  Thank you for your kind spirit; and thank God for lending your spirit to earth.  One day we’ll all make it back to our sender.....Amen
April 17, 2020
April 17, 2020
To Tom Jr and Family: Please accept the love and condolences from your friends in the Festival Strings on the loss of your father. May his name be a blessing.
April 16, 2020
April 16, 2020
Uncle T you will be deeply missed I will never forget all the long conversations we had. You will be missed but not forgotten. RIP
April 16, 2020
April 16, 2020
Uncle T was a man of many talents. He told stories about his voice overs and how much he loved to be creative fixig up the house. These are two of his many gifts that I had the pleasure to hear about. May he rest in God's arms. He will be truly be missed.
April 15, 2020
April 15, 2020
Hey dad, I know I had so much to say today. I almost felt like I was talking your ear off this time. I know you want us to be our very best self and live our very best life. Some of us has work to do but I promise you, I will do my very best to live my dash (1978 - ) just like you. Love you forever.
-J Moon
April 15, 2020
April 15, 2020
You were a really good guy. I’ll miss your educational and humorous stories. You may be gone but you will never be forgotten! Rest In Peace Mr. Dykes!
April 13, 2020
April 13, 2020
To my favorite uncle in the world I don't know what to say I'm very much love forward and I'm going to miss you and I don't have much to say but I love you and always looked up to you because you were important to me always  also I love when you use to come pick me up from my mother's house when I had problems with her you made me feel a part of your family I want to say is thank you to you and Aunt Linda I do appreciate all the love in the time you spent with me all I have to say thank you Uncle Tom and Aunt Linda
April 12, 2020
April 12, 2020
A true MENTOR:a trusted advisor and a role model that was willing to invest in our boys personal growth. As a close friend i will miss our conversation about military life before and after. You left a positive impact on M.E.N especially our mentees. Thanks for friendship, advice,honesty,encouragement, and support. As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another. I will never forget you soldier.
Virgil l Carman Jr
PRESIDENT M.E.N
April 12, 2020
April 12, 2020
Luke 23:43 ..."Today you shall be with me in paradise."
Your only crime was winning hearts. It is fitting today that we reflect on the heart of a Mr. Dykes who truly served and gave liberally. A wonderful reflection of the Love of God in us is how we should love each other.
Mr. Dykes poured out to our young men and will be greatly remembered as an unquantifiable asset to my son thru the Men Empowering Nations Mentorship Program. He has gifted not only to write, sing, develop and produce media, and speak wisdom; he also had great compassion and understanding. All he shared will always be remembered and live forever in our hearts for love never dies.
All he gave and all he meant to us will not be lost but repaid thru our lives with interest. Let's remember that it's not what we have but what we give in life that matters. Thomas's life was impactful. These Earthen vessels will fail us, but His spirit lives eternally. I pray we can find the way to pay it forward in His memory. Rest in paradise Thomas.
April 11, 2020
April 11, 2020
HAY UNK, JUST SITTING HERE THINKING OF YOU , AND REMEMBERING ONE OF OUR CONVERSATIONS, I CALLED U , CAUSE I WAS A LITTLE CONFUSED ABOUT OUR FAMILY ANCESTORS, I WANTED TO KNOW, ABOUT GRANDMOMS MOTHER, AND FATHER, HOW DID THEY LOOK, WERE DID THEY LIVE, IS THERE ANY PICTURES OF THEM ECT, MY MOM BETTY ALREADY TOLD US YALL NEVER GOT A CHANCE TO MEET OUR GREAT GRANDMOTHER, AND GREAT GRANDPOP, BUT I ASKED UNCLE TOM THE SAME QUESTION, AND HE REPLIED WITH THE SAME ANSWER, SO I SAID, LETS RESEARCH THAT INFO, UNK SAID OK, BUT ITS NOT GOING TO BE EASY,  CAUSE AFTER GRANDMA MOM DIED, SHE WENT TO LIVE WITH SOME FAMILY MEMBERS, THAT HE NEVER KNEW, I SAID WHY ISN'T THERE ANY PICTURES OUT THAT MAYBE WE CAN AT LEAST START FROM THAT, UNCLE TOM SAID, WELL STACE BACK IN THOSE DAYS PEOPLE WEREN'T TAKING PHOTOS LIKE THEY DOING NOW , HE ALSO SAID GRANDMOMS DAD, HAD ALOT OF BROTHERS AND THEY ALL GOT SEPARATED DUE TO THE SLAVERY TIME THEY WERE LIVING ON PLANTATIONS, I SAID WOW , THEN HE SAID IF YOU REALLY WANT TO RESEARCH I WILL HELP U , I SAID THANKS ALL I EVER WANTED WAS TO KNOW OUR FAMILY HISTORY, I HOPE THAT THE DEATH OF YOU, WILL BRING OUR FAMILY CLOSER THAN EVER LIKE WHEN GRANDMOM WAS LIVING, WE NEVER HAD FAMILY FUNCTIONS SEPARATELY LIKE NOW DEAR GOD PLEASE GIVE MY FAMILY THE STRENGTH AND COURAGE TO LOVE ONE ANOTHER CAUSE TOMAR IS NOT PROMISED TO NONE OF US, BLESS ALL OF US IN THE NAME OF JESUS AMEN, UNCLE TOM R.I.P, YOU WILL ALWAYS HAVE A SPECIAL PLACE IN MY HEART, LOVE U SOOO MUCH.
April 11, 2020
April 11, 2020
The thing I remember most about Uncle T is the way he showed me how to make candles, which turned into Lovely Candles By Lois. This has brought me so much joy.
I also admired how meticulous he was with getting things done correctly. He taught me so much in this life for which I will always be grateful.
And finally, I loved when he would say, "STAY AWAY FROM THE SHAMAROOKIES!!!"
You will continue to live thru me always.
Love you eternally,
Piggy
April 10, 2020
April 10, 2020
Bro. Thomas Dykes, Sr. will always be remembered as a dear friend. It is an honor to say that I had the opportunity to work alongside him in Men Empowering Nations. His wisdom and enthusiasm for life will surely be missed.
April 10, 2020
April 10, 2020
To my Uncle Thomas,
I’ll remember you for your kind spirit, gentleman’s class and winning smile! I didn’t have as many chances to visit with you as I would have liked, but every time I did, you made it feel as we had just talked yesterday. I remember our last conversation when I came to town to visit a couple years ago. It was a multi-state family road trip and we were on the tail end of the trip with little time left to get back home. You had heard I stopped to see Jenny on the way out. You called me while I was on the road. I thought sure you were going to come down on me for not making time to see you and Aunt Linda. I couldn’t have been more wrong. You were warm and sincere and expectedly just a little disappointed to have missed us. I was too and promised I would take you up on the backyard barbecue offer you made the next next I came to visit. I’m devastated I won’t get that chance. I have forever learned tomorrow is not promised. Rest In Peace and Power Uncle. May God bless your soul and the beautiful family you have left with us here, Aunt Linda, and my cousins- Jenny, Tommy and Michelle. Love always... 
—Tony Dykes & Family
April 10, 2020
April 10, 2020
Just want to take a moment to reflect on some of my memories of my Uncle Thomas. His Baking skills were awesome. He always made a chocolate cake that was out of this world it was chocolate on chocolate with chocolate icing. His love for music I remember as a young child hearing my uncle Thomas singing at grandmothers house. His unique voice will be remembered as I listen to some of his voice overs. I will remember his big smile and his great sense of humor. He always had a story to tell resulting in publishing his own book. To Linda Michelle Jennifer and Tommy, Uncle Thomas will be truly missed.
April 10, 2020
April 10, 2020
Mr. Dykes was an Inspiration to me. When he found out that I used to fly Cessna' when I was younger, we automatically bonded. We talked about going up together. He was a pleasure to Mentor alongside of. His Wisdom and Expertise will be missed. Great Example of a Role Model!!!
April 10, 2020
April 10, 2020
To Jen and The Dykes family sorry to hear of the loss of your father. My prayers goes out to you all with love from NC. May God stengthen and give your family unbreakable bond. Through this sad time. Remember him always and keep your faith. May God Bless you all. We know God is in control. Love you all. Your father is walking up the king's highway.
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Recent Tributes
April 4
April 4
Today marks four years, Dad! I was going through my phone about a week or so ago and saw the last few messages that you had left for me. It was sad to look/listen, but at least you've been in a better place. I've been stumbling onto more classical music on YouTube and even in the orchestras that I've been playing in and I wish I could share it all with you like I used to. You always pop up in mind though when I listen to different pieces. You rest well - Love you!
April 4
April 4
PopPop!! I don’t even know what to say. 4 years is a lot. And it feels like yesterday still so is it really? I’m missing you so much as I get older and gain new experiences and wisdom on my journey. I wish you were here to run through em all. I’m heavily missing our talks and I need them so much lately. I love you and hope you are shining and being serenaded by only the best heavenly violinists.
His Life

1 Year later - 2021

April 4, 2021
Happy Easter Dad, it’s been a year since you passed. We hope you heard us today when we came to Harleighs (Veterans) Cemetery to visit you. We are always thinking of you and remembering all the great memories and teachable moments. You may be gone but you’re never forgotten. We love you! ❤️

Naval Graduation Photo (1969)

April 10, 2020
Photo is of my Dad, Thomas Dykes, at the age of 18, holding the 1969 flag for his Naval Graduation at the US Naval Training Center in Great Lakes, IL

Sailor of the Quarter - Courier Times 1973

April 10, 2020
ADJ3, Thomas Dykes, was named Sailor of the Quarter in December 1973, at the Naval Air Facility in Warminster, Pennsylvania. He was an Aviation Jet Mechanic who worked on H-2 and H-3 Helicopters. Article was posted in Courier Times 12/12/1973, Page 31
Recent stories

Missing you Uncle T. Most of all I didn't have a chance to say goodbye. I was really looking

August 2, 2021
Missing  you uncle T . You would always come to my mom big party's then your birthday was the next day I was so looking forward to us having a cup of coffee at my new place. And boy we would have had a great time I can here you now... lol you got that coffee on niece. I wish I had the chance to say fair well. To you . But I can definitely say we'll done the good and faithful servant.  There will never be another Thomas Dykes Sr. One of my favorites  til we meet again rest well.
August 2, 2021
I can remember the many conversations  we shared about military and civilian  life.  How we were prepared,  on time, demonstrated kindness in spite of their character. The places we went and the women of that culture.  O'h how we laughed. I miss you my brothers because others can't relate . Just be strong  and know that because of you M.E.N will prosper. Love Ya and miss you!

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