Thomas Lee Keller

Thomas Lee Keller, 73 Thomas Keller passed away at his home in Baltimore on June 26, 2026, after a short illness. Tom was born in Frederick, Maryland, on November 29, 1952, to Thomas “Pete” and Doris (Brandenburg) Keller. Tom attended Frederick High School, then moved on to Towson University where he studied Theatre Arts and earned a Bachelor of Arts in 1974. After graduating, Tom worked in local and national theatrical costume shops, notably Center Stage in Baltimore, and Santa Fe Opera in New Mexico. He ultimately pursued his artistic dreams to New York city, where he resided for most of his adult life. Tom had a long and successful career as a costume designer in theatre, television, and film. His notable television credits include Law & Order, Law & Order: SVU, and Spin City. A lifetime of film credits includes The Hotel New Hampshire, Mystic Pizza, Dressed to Kill, GoodFellas, Grown Ups, Grown Ups 2, and The Emperor’s Club. Between TV and movie gigs, Tom served as stylist, costumer, and dresser for many theatrical productions, large and small, throughout his life. He often spoke fondly of time he spent and work he performed for the Jim Henson Company, and The Muppets. Tom lived and worked steadily throughout his life in New York and upon retirement returned to the Towson area to be closer to family and friends. Tom filled his retirement years traveling with friends and family, building a private garden sanctuary at his home, and quietly framing and displaying the photos and artwork of his many loved ones. Thomas is predeceased by his parents, his sister Terry Keller, and brother-in-law Thomas Crane. He is survived by his sisters, Donna Burtner (Steve), of Jefferson, Maryland, and Diana “Sis” Crane, of Baltimore, nephews Chad, Alex, and Tyler Crane, and nieces Andie Brown, Abby Manuel, Erin Doughty, and Casey McMunn, as well as several special great nephews and nieces. Among close family, he was affectionately known as “FUT”, shortened from Funny Uncle Tommy, setting him apart from other family members also named Tom. He will be affectionately remembered and deeply missed by his large group of close friends, John, Jack, Marie, Danielle, Robin, Michelle, and many more. A celebration of Tom’s extraordinary life will be held by his family at a later date.

Thomas Lee Keller

November 29, 1952 - June 26, 2026