McCABE, Thomas J.
Thomas J. McCabe, 55, a long time resident of East Hampton passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on April 10, 2012. Tom was a loving father, brother, son, uncle and friend. The beloved son of William F. and the late Helen Fagan McCabe, he was born in New Britain on October 13, 1956. He was a wonderful father to his four children, Drew, Chase, Craig and Taryn. Tom graduated from Central Connecticut State University with a Bachelors Degree in physical education and a Masters Degree in Science. He received an additional graduate degree from Sacred Heart University. A lifelong athlete, he was a graduate of New Britain High School and a member of the 1972 and 1974 State Championship Class LL baseball teams. Besides his four children, Tom is survived by his Father, William F. McCabe, sister Sheila and brother-in-law Allen King all of Kensington and his brother Patrick and sister-in-law Carol of West Harford and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his mother Helen and brother William McCabe. For over 30 years Tom was a respected teacher, coach and school administrator. For the past four years, he was the Athletic Director and Coordinator of Student Activities for the Rocky Hill Public School System. Prior to that, he was a teacher in the East Hampton and Glastonbury School systems. During his life as a physical education teacher and coach, Tom touched the lives of thousands of Connecticut students and athletes. He had a passion for working with student athletes and served as a mentor both on and off the field. Tom's coaching career included head coaching positions in high school boys baseball and football, and girls lacrosse and basketball. He coached high school teams in Windsor, New Britain, East Hampton, Glastonbury and Southington. Early in his life Tom coached baseball teams in the New Britain Babe Ruth League and the American Legion league. He relished his years coaching high school football and was a dedicated New England Patriots fan. Tom's dedication to his students and players was only surpassed by his deep love for his four wonderful children. Tom was also proud of his Irish heritage.
Friends and relatives are invited to calling hours Thursday from 4-7 p.m. at the Farrell Funeral Home 110 Franklin Sq. New Britain. Tom's friends are invited to go directly to St Patrick's Church East Hampton Friday for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in St. Mary Cemetery, New Britain. Tom's family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the staff of the Smilo Cancer Center at Yale New Haven Hospital for their care and support of Tom, the compassionate nurses and staff at the Middlesex Hospital Hospice, and the support from his friends and colleagues at Rocky Hill High School. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Thomas J. McCabe Children's Education Fund, c/o Liberty Bank 1169 Farmington Ave., Berlin, CT 06037. To light a candle or send a condolence, please visit www.farrellfuneralhome.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Linda & Ron Wallace
April 5, 2024
Twelve years have gone by and we miss you more than ever. We see rainbows and know that you are happy and doing well in heaven. God Bless. We love you always...Linda & Ron
Chase
July 21, 2023
There's so many things I wish I could update you about. People I wanted you to meet. I hope in some way you've seen me grow. I miss you man. RIP
Linda Wallace
April 5, 2023
Every time I see a rainbow, I think of you. Remembering all the fun times we had together; we miss you. RIP
Linda & Ron Wallace
Linda T Wallace
April 5, 2022
Think about you often....miss you, my dear friend!
anonymous
August 13, 2021
i love and miss you man. keep looking over us.
Be just and justify your actions
Breathe deep and walk upright
Lead and never follow
Love the people, be of the people
Humble yourself and pray
History remembers Kings
Linda & Ron Wallace
April 5, 2021
To Our Dear Friend Tom,
God saw you were getting tired
And a cure was not meant to be,
So He put His arms around you
And whispered, "Come with Me".
With tearful eyes, we watched you
As we saw you pass away.
Although we love you deeply
We could not make you stay.
Your golden heart stopped beating,
Hard-working hands at rest,
God broke our hearts to prove to us
He only takes the best.
Author Unknown
RIP, Linda and Ron
Linda & Ron Wallace
April 5, 2020
It doesn't seem 8 years have gone by already. We think and talk about you often. When a rainbow shows its beautiful colors after a dark rainy day, and the sun shines, I immediate think of you and say how much I miss you. Ron misses all the sports talks and get-togethers. We are so grateful to have all those wonderful memories. RIP, friend. Love you.
Jim Vendetti
April 5, 2020
To the McCabe Family
Probably the nicest most caring guy I knew
Great AD everything him did was for the
Betterment of Rhhs
Miss him dearly
He is always in our prayers
The Vendetti Family
Deborah (Annitto) Kruczek
February 5, 2013
We just heard the news about Tom's death...we were two-doors-down-the-street neighbors of the McCabe's for many years in East Hampton...Kristin's first babysitting job was babysitting the McCabe children. Our heartfelt sympathy to all. Tom is remembered as a nice, outgoing, personable man. Deb (Annitto) Kruczek, Kristin Annitto, and M.J. Annitto
Laura Jane Wallington
April 18, 2012
I was a student in East Hampton High School from 1983-1985 and I had the honor of knowing Coach McCabe. There is one more angel to watch over us. God Bless. Laura Jane (McMahon) Wallington
April 15, 2012
To the McCabe Family,
Many great memories of our times together in school, always a great guy! My thoughts are with Tom's kids and family...
Carol Goodyear
Michael Gauthier
April 14, 2012
I am deeply saddened and moved to hear about the passing of Coach McCabe. I was blessed enough to know him since Jr. High as a soccer and baseball coach, and then as our JV and Varsity baseball coach at East Hampton High School (1984-87). We will never forget him - he believed in us, always brought out the best, and invested passionately in kids to teach dedication, commitment, excellence and belief that you can achieve anything if you don't give up. He is a role model that I still remember to this day even as I watch and teach my own sons in baseball and other sports. My sincere condolences to the McCabe family. He was a great man. Life is short, invest in people and make it count.
Tom McDonnell
April 14, 2012
Our sincerest condolences to the McCABE family.I got to know Tom from our New Britain backgrounds and his coaching football at GHS, and I can't think of a finer individual one would want to coach and guide a son or daughter. May he rest in peace!

Here is a picture of me in Iraq in 1991
Rory Walsh
April 14, 2012
I grew up with and remember Thomas McCabe. I played in the CYO league with him for ST. Maurice Catholic Church. It is nice to see he was so well remembered. I send my sincere condolences. Captain Rory M. Walsh USMC (Ret.)
Zoe Dolan
April 13, 2012
Drew, Chase, Craig, and Taryn, Life seems so unfair sometimes. It is so hard to believe he is gone. I hope you take comfort in the fact that your father was a true inspiration to all who knew him. Always a smile and encouraging word. No doubt that the four of you were his shining stars. He was so proud of all of you and that's all he ever talked about. You were truly blessed to have such a wonderful dad. My heartfelt sympathies to your entire family.
Marilyn Teitelbaum
April 13, 2012
I substituted for Tom at GHS. HE ALWAYS had a smile for me in the hallway and an encouraging word. I kept tabs on him after he retired through his sister at Berlin HS.
Keri (Konopka) McGoldrick
April 13, 2012
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Mr. McCabe was my kindergarten gym teacher as well as my coach in high school and was always kind to his students & a man of integrity. Praying that God will grant you comfort in this time of great sorrow.
the Bagot Family
April 13, 2012
I was so sorry to hear the news of the loss of Tom.
He was a great coach,adviser,teacher and most of all an all aroud person.
The world lost a great man when we lost Tom.
R.I.P. Coach McCabe
The Bagot Family
Glastonbury,Ct
Megan Herrick
April 12, 2012
Dear Mr. McCabe,
I was so saddened to hear of your passing. You were a very nice man and I feel fortunate to have had you as a teacher.
Dina Unwin
April 12, 2012
I worked with Tom at Rocky Hill High school while volunteering as an assitant to the girls varsity soccer team. Tom always was in good spirits & always had a smile on his face. He was very encouraging & so positive to be around. He will be sadly missed, & those who were lucky enough to have know him will be touched by his light forever.
Kathy Martie
April 12, 2012
To the McCabe family, especially Drew, Chase, Craig and Taryn, our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time. We know you'll miss your father so very much. Take comfort in the love of your friends and family. Sincerely, Kathy and Chuck Martie, Nicole, Katie and Nick Claps
George Langston
April 12, 2012
Dear Drew,
We are so sorry to hear of your father's passing. Although we only had the pleasure of meeting your Dad once, we are sure he was a kind, loving and respected father, friend, educator and coach and positively affected many lives. We send prayers and condolences for you and your family at this difficult time.
Fondly,
George & Becky
Marlene (Bakaj) Kane
April 12, 2012
I knew Tommie many years ago in high school down by the beach. He was always full of life and enjoyed his family, friends and his sports. He has inspired and mentor many. Tommie was a blessing that everybody enjoyed. May he rest in peace and let his family continue his journey.
Sharon Nowakowski - Polowitzer
April 12, 2012
To the McCabe Family - Coach McCabe made an big impact on many of us who had the opportunity to have him for a teacher and coach. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you all. He will live on forever in our memories.
Michele & Ken Brown
April 12, 2012
Mrs. King, We are very sorry for your loss
Tyrone Abrahams Sr
April 12, 2012
Tom has been a Mentor and a big brother to me since has come into my life 17 years ago when he hired me as assistant coach at GHS. I am so grateful that i had time tell that last year. He always said 'god has a plan for all of us'.To Tom's family, especially Taryan, Craig,Chase and Drew, my prayers and love go out you during in this time loss...
Tyrone Sr, Wilma, Melissa,Ebony N.,Shaneall,Ebony C. and Tyrone Jr..
Ed Narus
April 12, 2012
I knew Tom since we were in the the 2nd grade. We were school mates, team mates, and most of all friends, for as long as I can remember. He was always smiling, laughing and full of life. And he touched so many lives, in so many ways. His family is in my prayers. And Tom, I wish you peace....
April 11, 2012
We had the honor to work with a great man at RHHS these past years. Every student and athlete knew that Mr. McCabe's door was always open. He will be greatly missed, but never forgotten.
April 11, 2012
Although we were only fortunate to have had Mr. McCabe as our Athletic Director for the past four years, we will be forever grateful for the example he set for our own children and all the student athletes at Rocky Hill High School. His friendly personality, commitment to kids, and courageous spiriit are to be admired. He will be greatly missed but we are thankful for the impact he had on our children and community. Our deepest sympathy to his family. May you find some comfort and peace in the love that surrounds you.
Vin, Maggie, Katie, and Tommy Seaver
Rocky Hill
Ken Mehler
April 11, 2012
Hey McCabe, this wasn't supposed to happen. I wish you had called me back.
Your buddy, Mehler
Alex Feliciano
April 11, 2012
Best football coach I ever had in Glastonbury high. Rest in peace Coach McCabe. You'll never be forgotten.
Jennifer Marozzi
April 11, 2012
My thoughts are with Coach Mccabe's children and his entire family. What a wonderful legacy he leaves...I feel lucky to have known him and to have had him for a coach in the East Hampton school system. I have so many great memories. My sympathies...
Jennifer Spaulding Marozzi
Patrice Johndrow
April 11, 2012
I was too young to remember Tom when we lived on Texas Dr. When I was at the East Hampton library years ago I was sitting in the children's section and talking with a woman. Somehow we starting talking about New Britain. It was Toms wife..I remember Chase and I believe Drew. Small world the only person I met from New Britain. To the entire McCabe family our symphathy to you at this difficult time.. The Johndrow's
John Bonneville
April 11, 2012
Hello
I am very sadden by the news of Coach passing away. I had him for one or two classes in Glastonbury. But what I remember best was Coach being my first boss to my first job. Working at the Country Club as a lifeguard. He gave me the chance to prove myself. I still remember his laugh of joy when we did something fun by the pool. To his family, my dearest sympathies and my thoughts and prayers are with you guys.
John
April 11, 2012
Memories of growing up in the EH school system wouldn't be complete without thinking of Coach McCabe. He was a wonderful teacher, coach and role model. I am so thankful to have known him. My thoughts and prayers to your children and family left behind. God Bless.
Katie Sarratt Latronica
April 11, 2012
We are so very sorry to hear the passing of Coach McCabe. Our hearts go out to the family. Rick, Debbie and Matt Downing
dott wild
April 11, 2012
Our Lord has been joined by a very caring and beloved man whose life touched and influenced hundreds of youngsters and adults.Knowing Coach was a great privilege and his long friendship with our family truly a gift.As he joins Jim may they share God's peace as we share unmatched memories. Our prayers with all his family and friends.
Dott(Mrs. James) Wild and family
Ann Linton
April 11, 2012
I went to High School with "Tommie" and also graduated in 1974. He was full of life, a great baseball player, a kind guy who was liked by everyone! It was great to read about all he has done in his life and accomplished.
My condolences to his family and I'm sorry he left us so young in life.
Bob Benson
April 11, 2012
Coach McCabe was a very influential person in my life. I am grateful to have had him as a middle school and high school coach. He taught me how to have confidence in myself and pride in my school and team! Huge impact on my life!!!!!
April 11, 2012
Coach McCabe touched our lives in so many wonderful ways. His dedication to his students and team members was seen by many and very much appreciated by the Bradway family! Tom had a great sense of humor and was such a devoted father to his beautiful children! He will be dearly missed by everyone! Our hearts and prayers are with his family and those who truly loved him!
With deepest sympathy,
The Bradway Family

Tom and Ron at EH Hall of Fame
Linda & Ron Wallace
April 11, 2012
We are deeply saddened by Tom's passing. Our thoughts are with his family, his friends and all the kids that, as a teacher and coach, he touched over his many years involved in sports and education. He was a fantastic man and true friend. Ron and I loved him very much and he will be truly missed. RIP, my friend.
Craig Katko
April 11, 2012
Coach McCabe was a great man, coach and father. He taught me about self pride, teamwork, and commitment. He will be greatly missed by many . My deepest condolences to the McCabe family.
Lauren Zimmitti
April 11, 2012
Drew, Chase, Craig and Tayn,
Thoughts and prayers are with you. Your Dad was a wonderful man!Sincerely,Mrs.Zimmitti
Linda Chambers
April 11, 2012
Tom was always a friendly face to talk with and share stories about our families of four kids. Will miss his upbeat personality and good heart! To his children: so sorry for your loss, may God give you strength.
Sarah Lentz
April 11, 2012
Who could ever forget badminton with Coach McCabe in p.e. class at GHS? I will always remember him as one of my favorite teachers and a kind and inspiring person.
Jim Vendetti
April 11, 2012
To The MCCABE family:
We are all very saddened by the loss Of Tom. Tom was a great teacher, advisor ,was an even greater parent & friend. I will miss him very very much. He meant a lot to me and to community Of Rocky Hill CT and other people he touched
My family prayers are will all of you during this time of Grief.
The Vendetti Family
Donna Lund
April 11, 2012
Coach McCabe was loved by countless people and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Rest in peace Coach.
Tom Malin
April 11, 2012
To the McCabe Family:
May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind always be at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
and rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
To a great person and friend! The prayers of the East Catholic community are with the entire McCabe family at your loss of a wonderful person.
God Bless,
Tyler Webb
April 11, 2012
Coach McCabe was a wonderful teacher and role model. He played a role in my decision to become a teacher and I am forever grateful to have had him at GHS. Prayers go out to his family and friends.
Denise Nowakowski
April 11, 2012
Drew, Chace, Craig, and Taryn:
Your Dad was a wonderful man and loved you all very much. When I had the opportunity to chat with him, he was always quick to talk about you all and about how proud he was of each of you.
Chace, you and Rachel have been close friends since kindergarten, so consider us as your extended family.
May you cherish all of your memories and keep them close to your heart.
Dad fought a long battle, but he fought it in the Tom McCabe fashion that we would have all expected.
Fondly,
The Nowakowski Family
Denise-Mark-Rachel-Ryan
Denise Ivey
April 11, 2012
So sorry for your loss
Jay Selavka
April 11, 2012
I had the privilege of playing baseball for Coach McCabe at East Hampton High School. Later in life, I was fortunate enough to officiate football games when he was on the sidelines. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Vinny, Louise & Shannon Pugh
April 11, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We were all so blessed to have Tom in our lives.
The McCooe Family
April 11, 2012
Our deepest sympathies to the McCabe Family. Mr. McCabe was inspiation to our oldest son who graduated in 2011, and a help to our family. May you be in God's light and Glory and your pain and suffeing is over.
Lisa Loffredo-Ghent
April 11, 2012
There are not enough kind words to say about Coach McCabe....he was simply put a wonderful person. What a great teacher and coach he was.
Gerry Ouellette
April 11, 2012
Tom was a great man, a good coach and a wonderful friend. Rest in peace, Tom.
John Ringo
April 11, 2012
God bless your family, and celebrate his life.
Eddie Quick
April 11, 2012
To a "Salt of the Earth" Guy, May He Rest in Peace and continue to "Coach" us from above.
Keith Luckenbach
April 11, 2012
I'm very sorry to hear of this. Tom was a great person and a very valuable asset to East Hampton and its school. Requiescat in pace.
Suzanne O'Leary
April 11, 2012
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Tom Seidl
April 11, 2012
The Seidl family sends our deepest sympathies. We cherish the times spent with Tom and his family during Little League Baseball, American Legion Baseball, High School events, and Hall of Fame activities. Tom was a caring friend and will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with Drew, Chase, Craig, and Taryn.
Farrell Funeral Home
April 11, 2012
Our sincere sympathies for your loss.
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Funeral services provided by:
Farrell Funeral Home & Cremation110 Franklin Square, New Britain, CT 06051-2607

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