Donald M. Tomlin, Don, passed away May 18, 2026, in Damariscotta, Maine.

Born on Dec. 17, 1943, in Atlanta, Georgia, and raised in Buckhead, Don lived a full and meaningful life shaped by family, friends, good humor, and a deep appreciation for the places and people he loved. Don graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology with a degree in mechanical engineering and began his career with Arthur Andersen & Co. in its Information Technology Division. He became a partner in 1977. After many successful years there, he moved to Miami Beach, Florida in 1994 and joined his friend, Rob Tabb, at Ryder Systems, Inc. Their division was outsourced, and Don continued his career with Florida Power & Light. 

Don was married to Ellen Sutter Tomlin, and together they had four children: David, twins Jennifer and Deborah, and Scott. They have 12 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. Following a divorce, Don met Claire Wilson Tomlin, who worked in the Arthur Andersen Tax Division. Claire's daughter, Evi, became like a fifth child to Don. 

Don and Claire built a wonderful life together in Miami Beach, where they bought a home on the Venetian Islands and enjoyed their subtropical garden. Don especially enjoyed the view across his pool to the colorful bougainvillea. He was active in the community, serving on the board of the Miami Beach Community Development Corporation and as its chairman for five years. In addition, he played an important role in The Market Company, Inc., Claire's South Florida business, which she started in 1996 and continues today. 

In 1994, Don and Claire traveled to Southwest Harbor, Maine, with their good friends, Rob and Anita Tabb, and stayed in a house beside the Mansell Boatyard near the Hinckley Barn. The Wooden Boat Show was taking place in the harbor, and they were immediately smitten with Maine. They returned every year on vacation and, in 2014, bought a cottage in Boothbay Harbor near the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, which became one of their favorite attractions. They joined the Boothbay Harbor Yacht Club in 2015 and Don served on the board for two consecutive terms. He became the club's certified ACBL Bridge Director. Don loved bridge and was a marvelous teacher, always happy to share what he knew. In May 2025, Don and Claire moved into their new home on Southport Island. Don knew Claire would love her home and garden just as he loved her. 

During the pandemic, Don's friendship with Paul Schacknow deepened. Rarely a day passed without their having a conversation, no matter where either was. 

Don was an eternal optimist, inspiring all who knew him with his belief in a righteous and moral world. He also had a marvelous sense of humor and frequently emailed friends jokes, cartoons, and funny aphorisms that brightened their day. He is remembered for his intelligence, warmth, wit, and loyalty, as well as for the love he gave so freely to his family and friends. 

Don leaves behind a rich life in relationships, accomplishments, and cherished memories. We all miss him deeply.  

At the Celebration of his Life at the Boothbay Harbor Yacht Club on Monday, Aug. 17 at 4 p.m., all of Don's children will attend, giving them a glimpse of his love for Maine.    

Hall’s of Boothbay has care of arrangements. To leaveonline condolences, please visit hallfuneralhomes.com.