Thomas Roma, 90, of Allentown, died peacefully Oct. 3, 2024, surrounded by his children at his home.

The loving husband of Jean (Brotzman) Roma, the couple shared 57 wonderful years of marriage before her death in 2012.

Born May 28, 1934 in Allentown, he was the son of the late Dante and Mary (Faust) Roma.

He enjoyed a long and successful career as a real estate developer in Allentown, he was instrumental in developing single family homes in Country Club Gardens in Dorneyville, Maple Hills in Wescosville and Springhouse Farms in West Allentown.

He pioneered commercial real estate development in South Whitehall Township, by designing and building the Roma Corporate Center.

Having a true love and passion for boating, he sailed extensively throughout the Eastern Seaboard and the Bahamas with his family, friends and beloved cat, Peaches.

In his youth, he loved roller skating, operating a ham radio, bowling, hiking the Appalachian trail and skiing.

He was a proud graduate of Allen High School, where he served as class president, and Miami and Drexel universities.

His survivors include children Mary Kay Roma and her husband, Peter D’Arista, of California, Md., Stephen Roma and his partner, Mary Reiss, of Fogelsville, and Elizabeth (Roma) Swallow and her husband, Scott Swallow, of Whitehall; grandchildren Taylor and Tara Burke, Makayla and Abigail Carthew, Carolina and Thomas D’Arista; and great-grandchildren Mia and Bella.

He was predeceased by his wife and sister Catherine (Roma) Uff.

There will be a private Celebration of Life service at the convenience of the family.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared at heintzelmancares.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Forgotten Felines and Fidos at forgottenfelines.org or by mail to 6022 Mountain Road, Germansville, PA 18053.