Thomas P. Keating

November 4, 1940 - December 11, 2020

STERLING – Thomas P. Keating, 80, passed away on Friday, December 11, 2020 at Boston Medical Center after a two week battle with Covid-19. He was born in Worcester, the son of Phillip F. and Viola (Johnson) Keating and had lived in Worcester and West Boylston before moving to Sterling in 1991. He leaves his loving wife and best friend of 29 years, Lisa J. Charette; four nieces and his nephew. He was predeceased by his sister, Janice Caffrey and his niece, Gwen. After graduating from high school, Tom enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1962 and served his country before being honorably discharged in 1965 as a Lance Corporal. Following the service, he continued his education and earned his Bachelor’s degree in Experimental Psychology at UMass, Amherst, his Master’s degree in Social Rehabilitation from Assumption College and was awarded a CAGS certificate in Interdisciplinary Studies in Behavioral Science from Fitchburg State College. Thomas was a dedicated therapist for many years working for the Lipton Community Health Center in Fitchburg and You, Inc. in Worcester before starting his own practice in Fitchburg called RESPECT. Tom created a 7-step treatment called RESPECT. The program stresses personal responsibility for behaviors and applies a multi-sensory approach using evidence-based and martial arts techniques. He will be fondly remembered for his kindness and his passion to help others. Due to Covid-19 restrictions and for everyone’s safety, funeral services for Thomas are private at this time and will be held at the Massachusetts Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery in Winchendon. Those who wish to make a contribution in Tom’s memory may consider donating to atsa.com or to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements are under the care of the Miles-Sterling Funeral and Tribute Center, 100 Worcester Road, Sterling. To share a memory or offer an online condolence, please visit "The Tribute Wall."