Thomas E. Meaders

U.S. Army
1951-1953
Korean War

Born July 30,1928, Thomas E. Meaders was the fourth of 11 children born to Louis and Inez Meaders. He was raised in Mariners Harbor. After graduating from Port Richmond High School 1946, he attended Howard University for a few years then enlisted in the United States Army September 24, 1951-September 23, 1953 SFC Korea. During his military career, he was sent to Germany for specialized training.

All of the Meaders brothers served in one of the branches of the military: Thomas in the Army, Louis, Solomon, and Richard in the Navy, Joseph in the Marine Corps and, Robert in the Air Force. After they served their country, Louis became a Psychiatric Aide at Baley Seaton Hospital and the remaining 5 brothers became NYC policemen. Thomas began his NYPD career in 1953; becoming Staten Island first black police Sergeant in 1972. He was also an instructor at the NYPD Police Academy. Thomas served his Country and Borough proudly.

Thomas and his brothers were able to build onto our family's original home to extend it to accommodate the large family. Thomas was the second of the five brothers to join the NYC Police Department and was lastly assigned to the 120 Precinct. He loved to read the classics and to play cards, poker and pinochle, with family and friends. He learned some magic tricks and would perform them at neighborhood children parties when asked.

Education was important to Thomas; he was registered to return to college before he passed away in 1973. He loved Chevrolet cars and the 1964 Ford Mustang. In 1959 Thomas married Jennie Perkins and together they had three children, Su-Yen, Thomas Edward, and Nicole. Thomas and Jennie lived in in their own home in Meiers Corners with their children.

Thomas was a die hard New York sports fan. He loved the Jets, Mets and NY Knicks. He shared his love of music with his children and we were able to pass along that love to our own children. We see our father Thomas in our children, and our grandchildren as well. Collectively we are teachers, community service workers, healthcare workers and DJ's. His love for life, his country and community live on.

Sponsored by Nicole Meaders