In Memoriam: Rev. Thomas P. Gariepy, C.S.C. ’70

Stonehill College joins the Congregation of Holy Cross in mourning the loss of Rev. Thomas P. Gariepy, C.S.C. ’70. The former professor of history and philosophy of science died on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the age of 78.

“As a priest, professor and alumnus, Fr. Gariepy demonstrated a singular passion for Stonehill College. His work teaching students and ministering to campus community members was distinguished by his dedication to the Holy Cross values that define our mission. I am grateful for his service to the institution, as well as for his friendship,” said Rev. John Denning, C.S.C., president of Stonehill College.

Fr. Gariepy was born in Providence, Rhode Island, and raised in Attleboro, Massachusetts. After graduating from Attleboro High School in 1965, he enrolled at Stonehill. In 1967, he entered the postulancy program at the Holy Cross Seminary. Later that same year, he began his novitiate year in Bennington, Vermont, then professed his first vows in 1968. 

He graduated from Stonehill in 1970 with a bachelor’s degree in history. He then entered Moreau Seminary in Notre Dame, Indiana, earning a master’s degree in theology from the University of Notre Dame in 1973. He was ordained a Holy Cross priest in 1974.

Fr. Gariepy earned a master’s degree in history and philosophy of science from the University of Notre Dame in 1976. He then began doctoral studies at Yale University, earning a Ph.D. in history of science and medicine. From 1980 to 1985, he served as dean of Saybrook College at Yale University, where he also taught. During that time, he balanced his work at Yale with his service to Stonehill’s Board of Trustees.

He joined the Stonehill faculty in 1985. During his tenure at the College, which spanned nearly 40 years, he served as director of the History and Philosophy of Science program. He later joined the Department of Healthcare Administration, teaching policy, epidemiology and the history of emerging infectious diseases. He also held leadership roles on various committees, including the Faculty Commission on Governance, the Presidential Committee on Campus Culture and the Board of Incorporators. 

In 2002, Fr. Gariepy served as assistant superior for the Holy Cross Community at the College for one year. He held the role of superior from 2003 to 2006.

Over the years, Fr. Gariepy was honored for his many meaningful contributions to Stonehill. In 1998, Student Government Association presented him with the Faculty Appreciation Award in recognition of his work with students both in and out of the classroom. In 2014, he received the Outstanding Faculty Service Award, given to a full-time faculty member who has significantly advanced the College’s mission. 

Fr. Gariepy is survived by his older brother, Richard, and many beloved cousins.