Thomas “Tom” Sehr, a lifelong resident and devoted ambassador of St. Louis, passed away leaving behind a legacy of public service, friendship, and a deep appreciation for the city he called home. Tom was born on July 22, 1943, the only child of Ottilie A. Pemberton, a talented artist, and Walter C. Sehr, a professional architect. Their creativity and appreciation for beauty profoundly influenced Tom throughout his life.
Tom is survived by his wife, Margaret and cousins, Karl Krackenberg, Julie Pemberton, and by his cousin Sally (Pemberton) Jones’ daughter, Noelle Jones.
Raised in the City of St. Louis, Tom graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1961. He was an active member of the school’s Camera Club and was remembered by classmates as an accomplished student who excelled both academically and personally. He continued his education at Washington University in St. Louis, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in the School of Arts and Science in 1965.
While attending Washington University, Tom met Margaret Wayne, who would become his lifelong best friend and, forty years later, his wife. When asked why they had waited so long to marry, Margaret would smile and reply, “We wanted to get to know each other better.” Their marriage was a testament to a friendship built on mutual respect, laughter, and shared interests. Tom and Margaret were married on June 14, 2008.
Following graduation, Tom began a distinguished career in public service with the City of St. Louis, where he ultimately served as Director of Health and Hospitals. In 1984, he joined the Bi-State Development Agency as Deputy General Manager for Administration. During his twenty-four-year career with the agency, he held several leadership positions, including Deputy Executive Director and General Manager, before concluding his career as Executive Vice President of Administration.
On August 8, 2008, Tom was honored by the Metro Board of Commissioners in recognition of his exceptional leadership, dedication, and 24 years of service to public transportation throughout the St. Louis region. Even after retirement, his passion for transportation continued through his volunteer work supporting the Delmar Loop Trolley, where he remained committed to preserving an important part of St. Louis history.
Throughout his career, Tom received numerous professional honors, including the Extra Mile Award for his contributions to The Salvation Army’s 2004 Tree of Lights Campaign. Away from his professional life, Tom embraced a wide range of interests. An avid photographer, he also enjoyed restoring fountain pens and pen nibs, traveling, and collecting fine wines, and artwork. His parents’ artistic influence remained evident in his lifelong appreciation of history, craftsmanship, and the arts.
Tom and Margaret fully embraced all that St. Louis had to offer. Together, they were active members and supporters of many of the city’s treasured cultural institutions, including the St. Louis Art Museum, Missouri Botanical Garden, Saint Louis Zoo, Missouri History Museum, St. Louis Symphony Orchestra,and Stages St. Louis. They delighted in sharing their love of the city with friends and visitors alike.
Tom’s life was defined by integrity, quiet leadership, intellectual curiosity, and an enduring commitment to serving others. Whether through his decades of public service, his volunteer efforts, or his enthusiastic support of St. Louis’ cultural treasures, he made a lasting impact on the community he loved.
To know Tom was to know someone who genuinely believed in the potential of St. Louis and worked tirelessly to make it a better place. He will be remembered not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his kindness, wit, generosity, and unwavering love for his hometown. He truly was an ambassador for the City of St. Louis, and his legacy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Memorial visitation at Kutis Affton Chapel 10151 Gravois Rd. 63123 on Friday, July 17 from 9:00-11:00 am. Interment at St. Marcus Cemetery. Contributions to Salvation Army or to a charity of your choice appreciated.
Tom was our very dear and very memorable friend for many years. As Roger’s colleague in the City’s Dept. of Personnel, he was a great boss and mentor, and as our friend along with his wife Margaret, the friendship goes back 50 years. We have fond memories of camping and float trips, enjoying some travel together, dining out, and sharing laughs and stories over a good bottle or two of nice wine.. Our deepest sympathy to Margaret.
Tom and I started with the City of St. Louis Department of Personnel on the same day and often had disagreements about who would be laid off first if there was ever a layoff (there never was) but I still maintain it would have been him because I was in the door first. I can honestly say he was a great boss and a good friend that I knew I could always go to if needed. He will be greatly missed I’m sure by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him. My sympathy to Margaret and Tom’s family.
Tom and Margie were my dear friends from when we were in high school, and I have hundreds of happy memories over the decades. My special fondness for Tom was all he taught me about food, wine, dining, and especially enjoying his wonderful sense of humor. He was a great guy and we will all miss him.
Sending you much heartfelt love, Margaret. So many fond memories of laughter and fun with you and Tom. He will be missed!
My Dad, Everett Fox, and Father in law Leo Fagan both worked in the Department of Personnel. I remember my Dad having very wonderful things to say about Tom.
My sympathy to his wife and family.
Tom – Was an amazing friend and supporter. In 1983, he honored me with continuing to represent Bi-State when I changed law firms and we remained friends until he retired. Michael
Tom was, above all, a gentleman. He was a true professional and represented Metro honorably in all of my dealings with him when I was Managing Director at St. Clair County Transit District. God’s speed my friend.