Obituary: Thomas James “TJ” Porter
Thomas James “TJ” Porter
TOPSHAM – We are heartbroken to announce Thomas James “TJ” Porter, 53, of Topsham, died unexpectedly in the early morning hours of Aug. 13, 2026, from a severe Babesiosis infection. He was surrounded by his immediate family at Maine Medical Center when he passed.
TJ was born in Pensacola, Fla., and spent his early years in Spain, Germany, New York, Washington, D.C., and Virginia Beach, Va. during his father’s time in the Navy. At the age of 9 he settled in the Brunswick/Topsham area. TJ attended Saint John’s Catholic School in Brunswick and went on to graduate from Cheverus High School in Portland. TJ often recounted childhood memories about his Papa, and reminisced about time with his brother and their cousins.
Affectionately coined “The King of Brunswick” TJ was well known and loved by many from his years at Bohemian Coffee House. He was an early staple on Maine Street and later worked at the Railway Avenue location. With a degree from SMTC, TJ worked for Wicked Joe Coffee and Iacano, and brought his exceptional talents in graphics and technology to both companies. A jack of all trades, TJ explored numerous outlets for his aptitudes, notably helping to open a restaurant in Yarmouth, being a beloved server at Henry and Marty in Brunswick, growing in the medical cannabis industry, and most recently, performing home renovations.
With a beaming smile, a hearty laugh, and a warm bear hug, TJ embraced life. Art was one of his earliest passions, a skill that he fostered and explored throughout his days. He loved nature, and kayaking was a favorite pastime. TJ was an eclectic music listener, could build almost anything, would always accept chocolate being offered, and had a deep breadth of intelligence on a wide range of subjects. He was amused by anything slightly unconventional, yet had the wisdom for meaningful and profound conversation.
More than anything, TJ loved people. Everywhere he went he made friends with ease, and undeniably more than a few people called him their best. He energized a room when he walked in and felt equally energized by those around him. He had a gift of being a kind comrade to all, regardless of circumstance. During his younger years, his family became accustomed to being known through their relationship to TJ. It seemed like a week couldn’t go by without meeting someone and hearing, “Oh, you are related to TJ? We love TJ!” The world seems emptier without his radiant personality and generous spirit in it.
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Above all, TJ cherished his sons, and was one of the sweetest men either of his boys could have called Dad. He adored his friends, his family, and loved both his sons and wife beyond measure.
TJ will be forever missed and treasured in our hearts. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; his oldest son, Jonah, his youngest son, Caius; his parents, Thomas and Sharon; his younger brother, Doug (Mary) and their two children.
A celebration of life will be held on Sept. 12. Details can be found at: https://everloved.com/life-of/thomas-james-porter/
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the MaineHealth Institute for Research, Lyme & Vector-borne Disease Laboratory, or Tufts Babesiosis Research Program:
Select: Area of Greatest Need
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Designate in comments: Lyme & Vector-Borne Research Lab
https://giving.tuftsmedicalcenter.org/give-now
Select: Other
Designate in comments: Babesiosis Research Program
For more information about Babesiosis please visit:
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