Thomas Harrington Obituary, Death – Thomas Harrington (19) of Little Compton died on May 8, 2023, following a nearly ten-year fight with Ewing Sarcoma, a kind of bone cancer. Thomas fought hard for years, undergoing conventional and alternative treatments.
He heroically endured countless rounds of chemotherapy, radiation, and major operations, knowing that it was the best modern medicine could provide to extend his life. But whenever he had the chance, he lived life to the utmost. He possessed a variety of talents, including lighting up the stage in musical theater plays and writing and performing stand-up comedy. He was a proud member of the Drumline in the Portsmouth High School Marching Band while attending Portsmouth High School.
He was a dedicated percussionist who enjoyed playing in a variety of bands. He recently flew to the Gambia, West Africa, to take Djembe training, and he left some of his clothes behind in order to fit a Djembe in his bag to bring home. As the pain and weariness from his cancer reduced his activity level, he discovered ways to produce music electronically, generating fresh beats even while lying in bed at home.
Thomas was filled with empathy for others. In February, he slept outside in a cardboard box four times as part of an awareness/fundraising event for persons experiencing homelessness. He became an advocate for other children with cancer by participating in Izzy Foundation activities and serving on their Jr. Advisory Board. For Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month, he penned a poem on his experience with childhood cancer and delivered it in front of the Rhode Island State House.
He attended Salve Regina University as a Social Work major after graduating from high school. After only one semester at Salve, his cancer returned, forcing him to withdraw. He enrolled at Rhode Island College after finishing additional treatment and taking some time off to travel and see the globe. He was studying music production, art, and music therapy with the goal of becoming a Child Life Specialist or Music Therapist in a hospital setting for children.
Thomas was assisted and motivated by many caring people and organizations, and he was always eager to give back. He attended The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, which assists adolescents with life-threatening illnesses, for numerous summers. He hoped to work as a counselor there this summer.
Thomas adored animals and was excellent with youngsters. For numerous years, he blended the two by working as a camp counselor and stable hand at Adamsville Stables. He also worked in the nursery at The United Congregational Church of Little Compton, where he was a member and a Youth Deacon earlier. He sang in the UCCLC’s Youth Choir and played drums for the Youth Band.
Even under the most trying of situations, Thomas could make you chuckle. He had a carefree, adventurous, and slightly naughty personality. His close buddies might tell you stories about their various escapades for days.
Thomas was the son of Westport School Counselor Elisabeth Allen Harrington and the late Linton Harrington. He was Eli Harrington’s adoring older brother. Thomas is survived by his devoted grandparents, numerous aunts and uncles, and several cousins, all of whom will miss him terribly. On May 27th, at 11:00 a.m., a memorial service will be place at the United Congregational Church of Little Compton. Donations in Thomas’ name can be donated to the Tomorrow Fund for Children with Cancer, an organization that has supported Thomas and his family for nearly ten years.
