Byron Laird Thompson

Byron Laird Thompson, 74, of Mansfield, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 20, 2017, at Hartford Hospital.  Byron was born on January 21, 1943, at Windham Hospital to the late G. Merritt and Elizabeth (Laird) Thompson.  He was raised in Mansfield Depot and was a 1961 graduate of Windham High School.  He enjoyed a variety of outdoor activities and often reflected on his days playing with the legendary Depot Dimwits.  He also looked forward to watching the Giants, Red Sox, Celtics, and most importantly, the UConn Women’s Basketball teams throughout the years.  Byron held on to share in Geno’s 1000th victory.

Byron worked alongside his brothers at the family business before transitioning to a full-time dairy farmer.  He loved the farm, the fields and his cows.  Byron was a life member of the Eagleville Fire Department as well as a member of the Uriel Lodge #24.  

Byron was a very kind and giving man and his family was his greatest joy.  He, along with his former wife, Ethel, raised their three children on the family farm, Thompson Hollow, which was affectionately named by his good friend, Don DeBella.

Byron is survived by his children, Betty and husband, Michael Pietras; Karen Thompson and Michael Thompson; and his two grandchildren, who were the apple of his eyes and could do no wrong, Alexander and Zoey Pietras, all of Mansfield; and his lady friend, Gladys Rychling, of Coventry.  Also surviving are his siblings, Burnham and Gerry Thompson; George Thompson Jr, of Mansfield; Terry and Robert Swaney of Old Lyme; and close cousin, Joan Ferrero, of Mansfield Depot, in addition to numerous nieces, nephews and cousins in Connecticut and Vermont; and his lifelong best friend, Albert Samuels of Mansfield.    

The family would like to thank the sincere and caring staff at Windham and Hartford Hospitals for their support and kindness throughout these difficult times.

 Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday, December 26, 2017 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Potter Funeral Home 456 Jackson St. (Rte.195) Willimantic, CT. A Funeral Service will be 11:00 AM Wednesday, December 27, 2017 also at Potter Funeral Home with burial at Storrs Cemetery to follow. In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to Mansfield Fire Department. 

 Service Information