Marian Thom

Marian Thom was born in Chinatown, New York in July 1936 to her mother Lee Shee Chin, and James Dhugon Chin. She was predeceased by three older brothers Jimmy, Willie and Benny. And is survived by her younger brother Ivan. She married Thomas Thom (deceased) on July 12, 1955. She is survived by her daughters Jean and Debra, sons Timothy and Dewey and grandsons, granddaughter and great grandchildren and many nephews, nieces and grand nephews, grand nieces and great grand nephew. She delighted in seeing them all at the many family gatherings and occasions. Her family and extended family were everything to her. 

Marian Thom was a founding member of the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) Paraprofessional Chapter in New York City where she helped to organize and support teaching assistants. As a dedicated fighter on behalf of the Asian American community, she was a founder of the United Federation of Teachers Asian American Heritage Committee; a major player in forming the Asian American Labor Committee of the NYC Central Labor Council; a co-founder of the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance of the AFL-CIO; co-founder of New York APALA; and so many other Chinese and Asian American organizations that established rights for so many Asian Americans who now benefit from her example, strength and dedication. In retirement she continued to stay involved in union activities and traveled regularly all over the world.

The family has created a memorial fund in her honor which APALA is hosting at  Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance.  Proceeds will be shared by the family with APALA and charitable causes that Marian supported throughout her life. 

Marian made the world a better place for so many of us.  Her strength and tenacity remain an inspiration for us all. She touched many lives and we are all enriched by her devotion to family and friends. She set an example for us to follow. 

The family asks that in lieu of flowers donations can be made in her memory at https://bit.ly/MarianThom

Please take special note of her museum video https://bit.ly/MarianMuseumVideo2016