Norwich, VT – Thomas George “Tom” Porter, a longtime resident of Norwich, Vermont, owner of G.R. Porter & Sons, and a deeply devoted husband, father, and community member, died suddenly of a heart attack on January 19, 2026. He was 61.
Tom was born on June 4, 1964, in Hanover, New Hampshire, to Carolyn (Kelley) and George Porter of Norwich, Vermont. He grew up in Norwich, spending summers on Lake Fairlee, a place to which he was deeply connected and which remained central to his life. From an early age, Tom learned the value of hard work, loyalty, and craftsmanship while working alongside his father.
Tom met his wife, Misty, at Hanover High School when he was sixteen. He graduated in 1982 and they married in 1989, building a partnership defined by devotion, humor, and teamwork. Tom deeply cared for his wife and showed his love daily with small, constant acts of tenderness. After attending Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston and earning a degree in architectural engineering technology, Tom returned to Vermont and the family business. He and Misty raised their three children, Ari, Joe, and Max, initially in Thetford, where Tom renovated an antique 1805 Cape nights and weekends alongside his father. In 1999, the family moved to Norwich, to a beautiful home Tom helped design and build.
Tom taught his children to downhill and water ski, encouraged a love of the outdoors, and showed up unfailingly for school events, sports games, and robotics competitions. He was known for his steady encouragement, generosity, and ability to help others see the bright side in moments of challenge.
For 35 years, Tom ran G.R. Porter & Sons alongside his brother Tim Porter. He expanded the business with fine craftsmanship, strong relationships with owners and architects, and a culture that supported and respected his workforce. He had great pride in the longevity and skill of his foremen and skilled craftsmen.
He was widely respected for his patience, humility, strong work ethic, and eye for design and detail. He quietly helped many, often without being asked, and supported countless young people through coaching football, teaching at the Ford Sayer Ski program, and serving as a Boy Scout leader. He considered it an honor to mentor youth through their personal growth and development.
In 2007, Tom and Misty built a cabin on Lake Fairlee, which became his grounding place and a beloved family gathering spot. Tom also had a deep passion for scuba diving and loved traveling with Misty, recently exploring the cenotes near Tulum, Mexico, with plans for future dive adventures together.
Tom is survived by his wife, Misty Blanchette Porter; his children, Ari, Joe, and Max of whom he was exceptionally proud; and many extended family members and friends who loved him deeply. A service celebrating Tom’s life will be held this spring; details will be shared at a later date.
The family is deeply grateful to members of the community who have supported and cared for them through this sudden and unexpected loss. Thank you to those who have brought meals, reached out with kind words, and shared favorite memories of Tom. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tom’s memory to Boy Scout Troop 253, c/o Treasurer Rob Adams, 96 Elm Street, Norwich, VT 05055.
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