Tom Nerney

Tom Nerney, 76, of Wakefield, died on March 17, 2018, St. Patricks Day, which he referred to as a "Holy Day of Obligation." A prominent advocate for changes to Medicaid and Medicare, Tom shaped national and individual state long-term care policies developing the principles of self-determination and the affirmation of freedom and quality for individuals with disabilities. Tom leaves behind his wife and sweetheart Jean Bowen; a sister, Dr. Anne Balboni; a brother, James Nerney; 4 adult children, Julie Marron, Tom Nerney, Michael Nerney and Kevin Nerney, and stepchildren, Kristin Bowen and Jason Bowen, as well as numerous nieces and nephews who affectionately called him "Uncle Tommy.". He was predeceased by his siblings Mary Nerney, CND, and John Nerney. Tom adored his 12 grandchildren, offering his wisdom and explanations of their rights under the Bill of Rights and the U.S. Constitution. He taught them to play poker, gave them brownies for breakfast and shared his love for fishing. Famous for his dark curly hair, he would also advise them: "Dont be too good and never ever comb your hair." He took life lessons from Fr. Ivan Illich, Michael Collins and Dorothy Day, and shared his passion for social justice for impoverished individuals with others. Tom was the executive director of the Institute of Health Quality and Ethics, of The Arc CT., as well as the Autism Society of America. He had a Kennedy Fellowship in Public Policy and was a co-director of the Center for Self-Determination. Tom was happiest and most content fishing over the rips of Block Island. A celebration of Toms life will be held on Saturday, April 7, at 11 a.m., at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of South County, 27 North Road, Peace Dale, R.I. For directions: uusouthcountyri.org. The family would appreciate donations made in his memory to the Rhode Island Saltwater Anglers Association Foundation. RISAA.org.