Thomas F. King

Thomas Francis King, 93, of Willimantic, beloved father, cherished grandfather and great grandfather, a fine Irish gentleman and a friend to all, departed this earthly life on September 13, 2015 to join Ann, the love of his life in heaven. Born to John and Margaret King on November 2, 1921 in Calla, County Galway, Ireland. He was one of twelve children. Tom had a very loving family who adored him, and was an inspiration to us all. Your day was always a bit brighter if you ran into Tom, who was always happy to have a chat. He inspired us all to enjoy each day to the fullest. His charming personality, wisdom, "Tom-ism's" and delightful Irish brogue always made you want to be around him. Tom was a voracious reader, always reading at least three newspapers each day, magazines and many books. He was a sponge for information and curious about everything. He always began each day with a prayer, a big smile, and appreciation of life. Tom enjoyed his daily walks, lively conversations, good food, and visits with family and friends, both in Connecticut and Cape Cod. If you weren't a friend of Tom's you surely became one quickly. Tom arrived in the U.S.A. in 1949 after 7 years of military service, prior to and during WWII. After the war he went to England for training and a military assignment, as well as college. After Tom's arrival in the U.S.A. he lived in Providence, RI with his sister Mary who was his sponsor. He then found his way to Willimantic to work at the American Screw Co. where he made many friends. On weekends he worked for his future sister and brother-in-law, Nellie and Raymond Ducharme at Raymond's Restaurant, where he met Ann, his future wife and Raymond's sister-in-law. After the American Screw Co. closed Tom went on to be the manager of First National Stores here in Willimantic, then on to being a district manager. Tom and Ann were married in 1954 and had a beautiful and loving marriage until Ann's death in 2007. We know that now they are back together which makes us so happy. Tom was a devout Catholic who was a parishioner of St. Joseph Church and spent many years being involved with activities there. He was a 4th degree member of the Knights of Columbus, as well as a past president of the local Irish Club, which he enjoyed very much. Tom is survived by his daughter Kathleen and son-in-law Warren with whom he made his home for the past 3.5 years, granddaughter Erin and precious great grandchildren Austin and McKenna who were the light of his life, and always enjoyed his time with them. Tom also leaves his nephew George and wife Joan, niece Carol and husband Gary, with whom he enjoyed regular visits filled with good food, laughter and joy. He is also survived by his sister Nora in Ireland, Nora's children in the Boston area, cousin's Eileen and Victor of Falmouth, MA, Noel, formally of Marstons Mills, MA, Jack McCarthy of Seekonk, RI, and their families. Many nieces and nephews in Ireland, England and beyond, and his dear friends past and present in Willimantic and Cape Cod. Special Thanks to Dr. Michael Kilgannon and his medical staff, the nurses and care staff on the 4th floor of Windham Hospital who were Tom's "Angels", Rita, his case manager, and Laura, Tom's VNA nurse, as well as Fr. Larry LaPointe. We are so grateful to all of you. Tom had so many years in his life, but more importantly, life in his years. His family appreciates and thanks all of you who made Tom's life so joyful. Tom's family would like to invite friends to celebrate a life well lived and to give Tom your blessings, 6:00-8:00PM, Thursday, September 17, 2015, at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson St. (Rte. 195) Willimantic, CT. A Funeral Mass will be held 10:00AM, Friday, September 18, 2015, at St. Joseph Church, 99 Jackson St., Willimantic, CT with burial to follow at St. Joseph Cemetery. To sign the online memorial book please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com