Obituary of Thomas E. Virtue

Thomas E. Virtue passed away peacefully on April 29, 2023, surrounded by family in Jupiter, Florida.

Tom lived a long and wonderful life worthy of celebration. He was born on July 13, 1934 to Edna and William Virtue, and was raised in Rye, NY. He graduated from Colgate University in 1956 with a degree in Political Science, and became an officer in the Air Force. Shortly thereafter he met the love of his life, Mary Susan McCabe, and they married on December 28, 1956 at St. Patrick’s Cathedral. They shared 66 extraordinary years devoted to family, friends, and adventure. Tom was a lifelong member of Westchester Country Club, a club he adored, and ultimately resided at with Mary Sue for the past five years. They also enjoyed many fond winter memories with family and friends at The Jonathan’s Landing Club in Jupiter, Florida.

Tom was the consummate salesman, and eventually found his career passion in the world of fragrance development at Roure Bertrand DuPont, an international essential oil supplier which he joined in 1971. He ultimately became President of Roure USA, and collaborated with fashion designers, celebrities and international cosmetic companies on leading fragrances for over three decades. His charismatic personality lit up a room, and he is remembered by industry veterans for his legendary talent, mentorship, and leadership. Their friendship meant the world to him. Later in his career he founded Virtue Group, Inc., continued to consult on fragrance design and packaging, and held board advisory positions in the industry.

Tom's competitive spirit in business also manifested itself in athletics. From his early years playing hockey and squash to his mid and late years on the tennis court and golf course, Tom was in it to win it. He played multiple sports a day, and later in life added daily beach walks to the line-up. 

Tom's true pride and joy was his family. Together with Mary Sue, they created life long, multigenerational memories and family traditions. A family event or gathering was not complete without his presence. Tom will be fondly remembered by all as a true Patriot who loved life. He will live in our hearts forever. 

Tom is predeceased by his brother William, and survived by his wife, Mary Sue, and their five children: Tom Jr. (Alima), Doug (Pam), Ted (Dani), Susan (Andy), and Stephen (Fatima). Tom is also survived by 16 grandchildren Kim (Brian), Matt (Selena), Tucker (Taylor), D.J. (Liz), Kristie (Dave), Garrett, Taylor (Nick), Tori (Shane), Ryan, Sean, Emily, Catie, Jessie, Henry, Bella and Shane – as well as 4 great grandchildren Kate, Jack, Tommy & Torin.

The Virtue family will welcome friends to celebrate Tom’s life at the Graham Funeral Home on Monday May 8th from 4-7pm (1036 Boston Post Rd, Rye, NY), followed by a Funeral Mass on Tuesday May 9th at 10am at Resurrection Church (910 Boston Post Road, Rye, NY). The Mass will be livestreamed for those who can not attend in person.  To view the livestream, please click here.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Thomas E. Virtue Memorial Fund to benefit St. Vincent’s Hospital in Harrison, NY https://www.saintjosephs.org/about-us/ways-to-give/donate