| Tom’s entrepreneurial spirit was matched only by his passion for people. In the mid-1980s, while serving as President of the New Orleans REIA, he recognized a powerful need: a national network that could unite and equip real estate investors across the country.
That vision took shape in 1985, when Tom gathered fellow leaders in New Orleans to share ideas and solve challenges together. The synergy of that meeting planted the seeds for the first National Leadership Conference in January 1986 — an event that drew 65 leaders from across the nation and became an annual tradition. From those roots, Tom formally founded National REIA, creating a framework that has since grown to serve more than 40,000 members nationwide. His belief was simple yet powerful: when investors learn, share, and advocate together, everyone’s opportunities grow.
Beyond the association, Tom was an investor, lender, landlord, rehabber, and a generous teacher to countless people starting their real estate journey. He was known for his encyclopedic knowledge, dry wit, and gift for making complex strategies understandable and exciting. Whether he was negotiating on behalf of members, helping a new investor avoid a costly mistake, or simply sharing a story over a meal or drink, Tom led with authenticity and generosity.
He also had a zest for life — from cruising the Caribbean with friends and colleagues, to savoring the flavors and charm of his beloved New Orleans. He brought warmth and joy to every gathering, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.
Tom is survived by his wife, Lucha Esquivel Hennigan; his son, Stephen Hennigan, and daughter-in-law, Tracy; his granddaughters, Megan and Callie; his sister, Judy Klopp, and extended family whom he loved deeply. He was preceded in death by his wife and partner in life and business, Peggy Koesterman Hennigan, with whom he built much of his enduring legacy.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. at Porter Loring Mortuary North. We invite the National REIA community to join us in honoring a man whose vision and generosity shaped not only our organization, but also the lives and careers of thousands.
As we reflect on Tom’s remarkable contributions, we recommit ourselves to carrying forward his mission — to promote, protect, and educate real estate investors so that we may continue to change lives, just as he did.
Rest well, Tom. Your vision lives on in all of us. |
