Melanie McLemore
Tom met Melanie in 2018 when they both started grad school at Montclair State University. After the first day they hung out, Melanie messaged Tom that they were going to be great friends throughout their journey. How true that message was. Grad school wasn't an easy experience and serving as first responders to students experiencing crises - it's safe to say they've seen it all. And then COVID happened. Surviving grad school, a pandemic, and long distance with Melanie now living in Kansas - they've stayed the closest friends. Mel, we've supported each other through the highs and lows (including dead dogs). I couldn't imagine having anyone else as my right hand woman.
Adam Pacheco
On Jason's first day of college in 2002, his assigned roommate, Adam, showed up late in the day with a mini fridge and a box of fresh fruit and said "I'm Adam, take these things, I have to go back to work." And then he left as quickly as he arrived. And so began a close friendship that has stood the test of time for nearly a quarter-century. Adam works as a deputy fire chief, but he regularly also serves as Jason's chief travel buddy, gambling partner, weekend getaway host, wingman, voice of reason, source of realistic and sound advice, timeshare co-owner, Scrambler adopter, "Kitty" namesake maintainer, and overall supporter and advocate. Adam, you are like the big brother I never had, and I am so lucky to call you a close and true friend. And on my wedding day, I am truly honored to be able to call you my best man.
Thomas & Michelle Walker
Jason first met Tom Walker in 2009, when Tom joined the Pascoag Fire Department where Jason was already a 9-year member. They quickly connected and found commonality in their work ethic, values, sense of humor, enjoyment of the "local watering hole" environment, and their love of the game of cribbage! It wasn't long before Jason met Tom's wife, Michelle, and their two daughters, and they have been important parts of the highs and lows of each other's lives for the past 17 years. Tom is a close and valuable friend and confidant, and he and Michelle are each other's genuine and loving partners, friends, and advocates. They exemplify everything we want to be as a married couple, and we decided that having them perform our wedding ceremony is a significant way to symbolize how much we value their friendship with us, and their relationship with each other.
Joey Madison
Joey Madison is a prolific artist of her time. Not only that, she was also one of Tom's students. Tom had the honor of supervising Joey during her time at Berklee College of Music. It was the perfect experience of a supervisor/supervisee relationship. There were tears, there were laughs...and then there was music. Tom was definitely a fangirl and introducing Jason to Tom's #1 favorite song "Therapy" - Jason, too, became a huge fan. Joey has a true talent for story telling and conveying emotion. Joey, after meeting Jason of course, you were the highlight of my Berklee experience. I am so proud of everything you do. Thank you for being a part of our life.