Essex Community Mourns the Tragic Loss of 7-Year-Old Thomas Michael Pratt
Fairfax, Vermont — A wave of heartbreak has swept through the Essex and Fairfax communities following the sudden and unexpected passing of 7-year-old Thomas Michael Pratt on October 30, 2025. Known for his bright smile, joyful energy, and kind heart, Thomas’s passing has left his family, friends, and community in profound grief, struggling to comprehend the loss of such a young and vibrant life.
According to family sources and local community members, Thomas—affectionately known to loved ones as “Tommy”—was a first-grade student at Essex Elementary School, where he was known for his boundless curiosity, laughter, and love for his classmates. His teachers described him as “a light in every room,” a boy who approached each day with excitement and a readiness to learn.
Thomas was born on May 22, 2018, to Michael and Sarah Pratt, and was the youngest of three siblings. He adored spending time with his older brother and sister, who often spoke of his endless imagination and gentle nature. Friends of the family say that Thomas loved outdoor adventures—especially hiking through the Vermont woods, building Lego creations, and playing soccer with his neighborhood friends.
The incident leading to his passing remains described by the family as “sudden and unexpected.” While officials have not released full details out of respect for privacy, the family confirmed that Thomas experienced a sudden medical emergency at home. Emergency responders from Fairfax Rescue and the Vermont State Police arrived quickly, and despite their best efforts to revive him, Thomas tragically passed.
News of his passing spread quickly through the Fairfax and Essex school districts, where grief counselors and school psychologists have since been made available to students and staff. Teachers have organized memory spaces where classmates can share drawings, letters, and memories of Thomas—reminding everyone of his joy and kindness.
Principal Laura Jennings of Essex Elementary School released a heartfelt statement, saying, “Thomas was the kind of student who reminded us why we love teaching. He greeted everyone with a smile, made friends easily, and showed compassion beyond his years. His absence will be deeply felt in our classrooms and our hearts.”
A memorial service for Thomas is being planned at A.W. Rich Funeral Home in Essex Junction, with a community candlelight vigil scheduled to take place on November 6 at Maple Street Park, where neighbors and classmates will gather to honor his memory. Attendees are encouraged to bring candles, flowers, or small toys in remembrance of the young boy who brought so much happiness to everyone around him.
Family friends have created a GoFundMe campaign to help support the Pratt family with funeral costs and other expenses. The campaign, titled “Love for the Pratts,” has already received hundreds of donations from across Vermont and beyond, a testament to the impact Thomas’s short but meaningful life had on others.
Neighbors recall how Thomas would wave to everyone passing by on his bike, his laughter echoing through the quiet streets of Fairfax. His parents shared that their son had a “heart full of wonder” and loved telling stories about his future plans—dreams that now live on in the hearts of those who loved him most.
As the Pratt family navigates unimaginable grief, they have expressed gratitude for the overwhelming love and support pouring in from their community. In a statement shared by the family, they wrote:
“Our Tommy brought light and laughter wherever he went. We are heartbroken beyond words, but we are comforted knowing that his spirit will continue to shine through the kindness and love he inspired in others.”
The Essex and Fairfax communities are uniting in that same spirit—honoring a life that, while far too short, was filled with warmth, laughter, and love. Thomas Michael Pratt’s memory will forever remain a reminder of the beauty and innocence of childhood, and of how deeply one small life can touch so many others.
Rest in peace, sweet Thomas. Your light will continue to shine in every heart you touched.