The Middletown and Newport communities are mourning the devastating loss of Thomas “Tom” Perkins, 68, and his wife Agatha Perkins, 66, who tragically lost their lives in a plane crash on Interstate 195 in Dartmouth, Massachusetts, on Monday morning.
According to the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office, the couple were the sole occupants of a Socata TBM 700 single-engine turboprop that departed from New Bedford Regional Airport shortly before 8 a.m. on October 13, 2025. Moments after takeoff, the aircraft went down near mile marker 14, igniting upon impact. Emergency responders from Dartmouth Fire District 1 and Massachusetts State Police rushed to the scene, but both victims were pronounced dead at the site.
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Authorities have confirmed that no vehicles on the highway were struck. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are leading the investigation into the cause of the crash, which temporarily closed portions of I-195 for several hours as crews cleared debris and collected evidence.
Remembering Tom and Agatha Perkins
The sudden loss of Tom and Agatha Perkins has sent shockwaves throughout the Rhode Island community, where the couple were widely admired for their integrity, generosity, and shared dedication to craftsmanship and preservation.
Tom Perkins was a partner at Kirby Perkins Construction, a Middletown-based firm known across New England and beyond for its historic restoration and preservation work. His career, spanning nearly four decades, was marked by a deep respect for history, design, and quality.
Originally from Vail, Colorado, Tom joined the company in 1987 and quickly distinguished himself through his leadership and vision. By 1997, he became a partner alongside founder Jerry Kirby, officially establishing Kirby Perkins Construction, a name now synonymous with excellence in architectural restoration.
A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Preservation
Under the guidance of Kirby and Perkins, the company rose to national prominence, working on landmark projects including Newport’s Gilded Age mansions and historic plantations across Virginia. Their work earned widespread recognition for its meticulous attention to detail and commitment to preserving America’s architectural heritage.
Friends and colleagues describe Tom as a man of quiet strength and extraordinary talent, whose dedication to his craft elevated every project he touched. Agatha, his devoted wife, shared his passion for creativity and community and was admired for her warmth and kindness. Together, they embodied partnership — in both life and purpose.
Outpouring of Tributes
The news of their passing has prompted heartfelt tributes from across the construction and preservation industries. JPS Construction and Design, Inc., a fellow Rhode Island firm, shared a touching statement:
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Kirby/Perkins families right now during this very difficult time. We have always looked up to the standard, elegance, and excellence that the Kirby Perkins family has brought to our community and this industry. Emily and Owen and the rest of the family, we are thinking of you all and praying you find peace in your beautiful memories.”
Friends describe the couple as “the heart of their community,” known for their generosity, humility, and love of family. Their passing leaves a void that will be felt deeply by all who had the privilege to know them.
Investigation Ongoing
The NTSB has confirmed that the wreckage has been transported to a secure facility for further examination, with a preliminary report expected in the coming weeks.
Funeral and memorial service details will be announced by the Perkins family at a later date.
As the investigation continues, the memory of Tom and Agatha Perkins will live on through the remarkable legacy they built together — one of craftsmanship, compassion, and an enduring commitment to preserving beauty and history for generations to come.