Tom Highland, a Jim Thorpe Borough Councilman who began his third term this year, passed away Friday.

Jim Thorpe Borough officials confirmed the news Friday and Highland Beverages, where Tom was a principal partner, posted a tribute on its Facebook page Saturday morning.

“If the value of a human being is based solely upon how loved and cherished you are by your friends and family, Tom was one of the richest men around,” the business posted. “Your smile and your giving heart will be missed. You will be missed.”

Highland had returned to council in January following a residential fire in May 2021 that claimed the life of his wife Lynn.

Tom escaped through the basement and was taken to the Lehigh Valley Burn Center in Allentown with extensive burns.

“Words can’t express how grateful I am for everything people have done for me,” Highland said in January. “I love the people of Jim Thorpe from the bottom of my heart. It’s been so overwhelming.”

He was the top vote-getter in the 2021 general election, earning 861 votes.