Michael "Mike" John Tomlinson passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 17, 2024 surrounded by his close family. Born in New Bedford, MA in 1943 to John and Florence Tomlinson, he was known for his wonderfully curious mind, smiling baby blue “Irish Eyes”, a passion for anything golf, boating, the Minnesota Vikings, and an intense love of family and friends. His most obvious love though was for his devoted and adoring wife of 31 “and a half” years, Sharon (Barboza) Tomlinson. She was and is his soulmate. It was obvious for all to see that they were each the other’s “person”.

He cherished his family above all else and was extremely proud of his son Derek of Leesburg, VA, his daughter-in-law Shannon and their three children, Mason, Samantha, and Myles, his two sisters, Margaret Frank of New Bedford, MA and Mary Leary of Holliston, MA, numerous godchildren, nieces and nephews, and his sister and brothers-in-law. He was the brother of Eileen (Tomlinson) Sullivan, who passed away in 2021. He could also boast of countless friends and neighbors to whom he had strong bonds with. Mike embodied the saying, “A stranger is just a friend you haven’t met yet.”

Mike was a proud resident of New Bedford for most of his life until relocating to Spring Hill, FL and ultimately, Melbourne, FL. He was a member of the Holy Family High School Class of 1960 who he always considered an extended family. Mike also lived a life of volunteerism and service starting as an altar server at St. James, a longtime New Bedford Gridiron Club member, little league announcer, and golf tournament marshal.

Mike retired after 30 years as a longtime IBEW 2322 brother from his job at New England Telephone and ultimately Verizon where he met and made many lasting friendships that lasted well beyond his working years.

A celebration of life will be held at a future time in the New Bedford, MA area. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the St. Jude Children’s Hospital in his name.