Thomas Jay Ainsworth: A Life Dedicated to Family, Faith and Passion

Thomas (Tom) Jay Ainsworth, 73, of Maumee, Ohio, passed away on January 31, 2026, following a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease and a rare autoimmune disease known as granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA). A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Tom’s life was marked by a deep faith, a love for music, and a passion for cars.

Early Life and Family

Born on January 24, 1953, in Toledo, Ohio, Tom arrived three minutes after his twin sister, Patricia. Their parents, Thomas (Tom) Joseph and Margaret (Margie) Mary Ainsworth, were the founders of the Toledo Mothers of Twins Club, which later evolved into the national organization, Multiples of America. Growing up with six siblings, Tom experienced the joys of large family road trips across the country, fostering a lifelong love for automobiles.

A Passion for Cars

Tom’s fascination with cars began in childhood. He would identify the make and model of every vehicle passing his bedroom window on Monroe Street, with his sister Patricia diligently logging each sighting to determine the most popular models. This passion culminated in the publication of his book, Car Parts: Finding Lessons and Love from the Car Parts of Life. He was a regular attendee at the Toledo Auto Show, collecting brochures and immersing himself in the world of automotive engineering.

Education and Career

Tom graduated from St. Francis de Sales High School in 1971. He pursued a degree in Business Administration at the University of Toledo on a Junior Achievement scholarship, serving as president of the UT Student Government from 1974 to 1975. Throughout his career, Tom held positions at Perfect Circle Co., Guardian Glass, Trinova, and Scott Paper. He later founded People Principles Consulting Company in Houston, Texas.

Faith and Community

Tom’s Catholic faith was central to his life. He was deeply devoted to the Blessed Mother and St. Joseph the Worker. In retirement, he found a supportive community at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Fremont, Ohio, participating in the Men’s Group, Exodus 90, and the Diocese of Toledo Cursillo group. He also actively managed his Parkinson’s disease through programs like Rock Steady Boxing and the YMCA in Sylvania, Ohio.

Music and Legacy

Music was a constant source of joy throughout Tom’s life. He played piano and guitar, singing at church services and continually discovering new songs. He shared his love of cooking with family and friends, becoming known for his famous spinach quiches. Tom is remembered for his gentle spirit, patient ear, and unwavering commitment to his loved ones.

Family and Remembrance

Tom is survived by his children, Thomas Ainsworth and Lindsay Millard; Erin and Steven Boes, and their children Colin, Coraline, and Caspian; and Daniel Ainsworth and Corey Hastings, and their children Mads and Beck. He is also survived by his uncle Joseph Ainsworth, aunt Priscilla Lewis, and his sisters Judith Turner, Barbara Miller, Nancy Sattler, and Patricia Hannifin, along with numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son, Matthew, his parents, and several other loved ones.

A visitation was held on March 5, 2026, at Walker Funeral Home in Toledo, Ohio, with a rosary recited at 7 PM. A second visitation and Funeral Mass took place on March 6, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Fremont, Ohio, followed by burial at Toledo Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.