RRP Establishing a Fund in Tom Ely’s Name

The Thomas C. Ely Fund is named for one of the Rock River Players’ (RRP) most distinguished and dedicated actors and directors who passed away in August 2025.

Tom began performing with the RRP soon after he retired as Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Vermont when he and his wife, Ann, moved to Newfane. Over the last several years, he’s been in several one acts and full-length productions; several cabarets and even the RRP’s Covid-time Solo series aired on BCTV. Moreover he jumped in recently to direct and was always the glue behind any show he’s been in encouraging and modeling camaraderie, ensemble spirit, and professionalism with heart among us all.

Since Tom named the RRP as one of several “in-lieu-of-flowers” beneficiaries, Rock River Players wishes to establish a Thomas C. Ely Fund that would support new play development and capital improvements to the RRP.

CLICK HERE or use the QR Code to make an online donation to the Tom Ely Fund.
Or mail your check to
Rock River Players, PO Box 242, Newfane VT 05345

“That’s the biggest thing this community theater is about: bringing community together. [We] all work together to make something good happen for our community.”
– Tom Ely, May 2025