Thomas Edward Grafenstine, Jr.

Thomas Edward Grafenstine, Jr. died suddenly and peacefully in his home at the age of 91 on June 27, 2024.  He was born in Croydon, Pennsylvania and lived most of his life in Burlington New Jersey.  A man of many talents and interests, he enjoyed a long and fruitful life.  He was known as “Ed” to some, “Tom” to others, and “Pe” to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  He leaves a legacy of incomparable love for his family and friends.

Ed was pre-deceased by his beloved wife E. Joan (Davis) Grafenstine, who he always referred to as the “love of his life”.  He is survived by his daughters, Kesslyn Grafenstine Smith (widow of William P. Smith) and Keri L. Oldfield (wife of William M. Oldfield).  He viewed his sons-in law as “sons”, and the sentiment was reciprocated.  Ed is also survived by his three grandchildren, Aimee Oldfield Bruno (wife of Joe Bruno), Thomas W. Oldfield and Logan A. Oldfield, plus his two great-granddaughters, McKenna O. LoBue and Madden O. Rein. He adored his pups Pigeon and Kipper, as well the other family pets.  Ed was pre-deceased by his father, Thomas Edward Grafenstine Sr., his mother Violet Cockett, his beloved “Gran” Florence Hopkinson Cockett, his siblings Chester, Joseph and Barbara plus numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.  He was the eldest surviving member of his generation on both sides of his family.

As a businessman, artist and entrepreneur, Ed was hard-working, industrious and generous.  His 30+ year career at Rohm and Haas was very special to him and he made many lasting friendships over the decades he worked there. He remained active and engaged as a Rohm and Haas retiree and, until his passing, organized monthly Retiree luncheons plus other events. 

Most recently, Ed was a well-known and much-loved entity at his daughter Keri’s Rancocas Woods Craft Co-Op, where he served 6 days a week as operational manager, crafter and antiques dealer. He particularly loved the art of carving gourds.  Ed truly enjoyed his lasting relationships and daily interactions with Co-Op vendors and regular customers; in addition, all visitors to the Co-Op were welcomed with a smile and kind words.

In the City of Burlington, Ed was well-known for his many contributions to the Historic Society, and specifically as Chairman of The Wood Street Fair for 23 years.  He was actively engaged in his daughters’ school and recreational activities, plus was a champion and confidant to many local children.  His many contributions to his communities included serving his Church as Deacon, Treasurer, Youth Group Leader, and most recently Deacon Emeritus.  Throughout their entire lives, Ed and his wife Joan quietly assisted numerous people in need and hosted many social events in their church and community.

Ed’s lifelong sense of adventure and practical jokes are well-known to all who knew him. The stories are too many to list, but many friends knew to first check their water glasses before potentially drinking a goldfish.  His many vacations with his wife Joan and with his daughter Kesslyn included adventures in Hawaii, Arizona, The Grand Canyon, Florida, the Caribbean, Mexico, Bermuda, and England.  He was an avid water skier and swimmer in his youth; he loved whale watching, helicopter rides and more adventures than we could begin to count.  In addition, Ed was very proud to have served his country in the US Navy, and his recent trip to Pearl Harbor and the USS Missouri was particularly meaningful.

Ed’s devotion to his family and his dear friends was incomparable, and his enduring love and devotion to his wife Joan was a testament to “what love really is”.  Forever in our hearts, and now reunited in the bosom of God with his beloved wife Joan, Ed was truly one of the most amazing men to ever walk this planet.  We are blessed to have had him in our lives and our hearts. He was the most loved man who loved his family, friends and his life every day.

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