– Tom Purdom, prolific science fiction writer, has passed away at the age of 87
– Renowned science fiction author, Tom Purdom, dies at 87.

Tom Purdom, Prolific Science Fiction Writer and Journalist, Passes Away at 87

Early Life and Career

Tom Purdom, a renowned science fiction writer, music critic, and freelance journalist, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 14, at the age of 87. He succumbed to cancer at his residence in Philadelphia’s Center City.

From a young age, Purdom had a passion for writing. He penned his first story at the tender age of 7, and after reading it to his Aunt Zena, she encouraged him to pursue a career as a writer. Taking her advice to heart, he embarked on a lifelong journey as a wordsmith.

In 1957, at the age of 21, Purdom achieved his first publication success with his science fiction story, “Grieve For a Man,” which appeared in Fantastic Universe magazine. His writing career continued to flourish, with his last story, “Exit Contract,” being published in Asimov’s Science Fiction magazine in 2023.

Over the years, Purdom wrote five science fiction novels and sold more than 60 short stories and novellas to various publications, including Fantastic Universe, Asimov’s, Science Fiction Quarterly, and Fantasy and Science Fiction. His work garnered critical acclaim and recognition, with his 1999 story “Fossil Games” being nominated for the prestigious Hugo Award for Best Novelette. Additionally, his stories were translated into multiple languages, including Russian, German, and Chinese.

Contributions and Legacy

Purdom’s writing often explored themes related to war, peace, and romance. Critics lauded his inclusion of diverse characters, representing different gender identities, sexual orientations, and racial backgrounds. He actively participated in the Philadelphia Science Fiction Society, delivering lectures on writing at the annual Philadelphia Science Fiction Conference and other venues. He was also a charter member, vice president, and regional director of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers Association.

Throughout his career, Purdom’s talent and craftsmanship as a writer were widely acknowledged. He was a regular feature in The Inquirer and Daily News, and a fellow writer paid tribute to him, stating, “He was a master craftsman, creating crisp, compelling stories.” The Encyclopedia of Science Fiction features a profile on him, and his longtime friend and colleague, Michael Swanwick, described Purdom as the heart and soul of the Philadelphia science fiction community.

Wide-Ranging Writing Portfolio

In addition to his contributions to the science fiction genre, Purdom made significant contributions to journalism. He wrote book reviews for the Bulletin newspaper in the 1970s and contributed music reviews and other nonfiction pieces to several local publications, including The Inquirer, Philadelphia Magazine, and Philadelphia Weekly, from 1977 to 2008. Purdom also lent his writing skills to organizations such as the University of Pennsylvania and the American Heart Association, producing reports, brochures, press releases, and other documents in the 1980s and ’90s.

Despite his diverse writing endeavors, science fiction remained Purdom’s true passion. In his online memoir, he humorously remarked that corporate work paid better per hour than science fiction, but for him, it was always a sideline to earn money.

A Life Well-Lived

Thomas Edward Purdom was born on April 19, 1936, in New Haven, Connecticut. Having traveled extensively due to his father’s Navy service, Purdom lived in various states, including California, Florida, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. He pursued engineering at Lafayette College in the early 1950s but ultimately decided to follow his true calling.

After serving in the Army as a medic from 1958 to 1960, Purdom settled in Philadelphia. He married Sara Wescoat in 1960, and they had a son named Christopher. Together, they resided in West Philadelphia and later Center City. Unfortunately, his wife passed away in 2006.

Prior to dedicating himself to writing full-time, Purdom held various jobs, including working for an aerial surveying firm and as an airline reservations agent. He initially wrote under the name Thomas E. Purdom but later switched to Tom Purdom, finding it more appealing.

Purdom’s personal life was rich with experiences and relationships. He and his wife were avid supporters of the Philadelphia Orchestra and enjoyed hosting a diverse group of friends at their Center City home. In 2015, the Daily News featured an article on musicians whom Purdom had reviewed, recounting their visits to him in the hospital after an accident.

Purdom was not only a talented writer but also an ardent cyclist and a passionate fan of the Union soccer team. His son fondly remembers attending games together, cheering for the Union, and engaging in lively discussions about the sport.

A Lasting Legacy

Tom Purdom is survived by his son Christopher, daughter-in-law Barbara, two grandsons, a sister, a brother, and other relatives. While his physical presence may be gone, his contributions to the world of science fiction and journalism will continue to inspire and captivate readers for generations to come.

Memorial services to honor Tom Purdom’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to Piffaro, the Renaissance Band, or Dolce Suono Ensemble, both based in Philadelphia.

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1. Tom Purdom, prolific science fiction writer, has passed away at the age of 87
2. Renowned science fiction author Tom Purdom dies at 87.