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Thomas Serra Obituary
Thomas John Serra, 72, of Middletown, CT passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side on Saturday, February 9, 2019. Born April 14, 1946, he was the son of the late Concetto "Connie" Serra and Marian (Sconti) Serra. Tom was a loving husband, father, grandfather, mentor and friend to all. He was very passionate about his family and the Middletown Community. Tom served as a Teacher, Coach and Administrator for over 30 years at his beloved Vinal Technical High School where he positively influenced thousands of students, teachers, faculty and staff. He served his beloved city of Middletown as mayor from 1993-1995 and as council majority leader for over 30 years. Being a graduate of Eastern Connecticut State University and The University of Connecticut, Tom took pride in pushing all he touched to accomplish their goals through education, learning from mistakes and being a loving community member. He is survived by his loving wife Maryann (Saporita) Serra, sons Jason Thomas Serra and Wife Jill (Belenchia) Serra of East Hampton, Christopher Paul Serra and wife Amy Lynn (Bedner) Serra of South Glastonbury, 5 grandchildren, Luca, Marco, Brayden, Matteo, and Caylee Ann Serra, brother Joseph C. Serra and wife Marie, sisters Loretta Roberts and husband Tom, Joy Moncada and husband Nick, sister-in-law Sonia Kurdziel and multiple nieces, nephews and cousins. Tom was the president of the Middletown Sports Hall of Fame for over 10 years. Prior to that he was inducted into the Hall of fame twice for being an All-State Football player, and a standout athlete at Middletown High School from 1960-1964. He was full of "Tiger Pride" and the colors of orange and black. He received multiple awards for his service and achievements of which he was most proud: The 2011 Eastern Connecticut State University Distinguished Alumni Service Award, The 2013 Governor William A. O'Neil Public Service Award, and the 2018 Italian-American Legislative Caucus Award at the State Capitol. Friends may call on Friday, February 15, 2019, at the Middletown High School Auditorium from 3-7 p.m. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Sebastian Church on Saturday, February 16, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. (please go directly to the Church for the Mass). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made out to The Thomas J. Serra Memorial Scholarship Fund sent to Liberty Bank, 315 Main St., Middletown, CT 06457, in care of Maryann Perrotti or the St. Sebastian Renovation Fund, 155 Washington Street, Middletown, CT 06457.
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Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Serra
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Thomas Hickman
February 7, 2024
I think of Tom often. He was a true blessing in my life. Tom and Marianne would often think of me to produce memories for their family, including their children´s weddings. It was a privilege to be a part of their family during those special times, and I will always remember them for that especially Tom at this time of the year. Tom was a special person and gone far too soon.
Ramona Smedick
June 12, 2022
Mr. Sierra was a big part of my life while attending Vinal. He was my English teacher and always someone I could talk to. Saw him a few times over the years after I left Vinal and still think about him all the time. I am so sorry to hear he passed and will miss him dearly! Such a wonderful man, mentor, friend and good listener....
Tony Milardo
February 8, 2022
Maryann, although not here for on that memorable day I was saddened when I heard of his passing! He will never be forgotten as already three years have gone by! My deepest condolences to you and Jason and Chris and to all the Serra family!
Tom Hickman
February 7, 2022
Tom was a true leader, leaders are measured by how much influence they have on people, Tom had a lasting influence on me and I will never forget him, RIP my friend and my your family find peace in remember what a great man you were... and the influence you had on them....
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Lydia Moretti
March 3, 2019
So very sorry to hear of your loss Maryann. My prayers and condolences to you and your family.
Doug Greene
March 3, 2019
Maryann,
I know how proud you have been of Tom over the many great years you two lived together. Your incredible family and his many accomplishments are testimony to the life that you two shared.
Your faith, I know, will see you through. But here's hoping that your burden will be eased by your many friends and family who loved him so much. And the warmth of so many years of happy memories.
My sincere condolences to you and your family,
Doug Greene
EDWARD MATTOS
March 2, 2019
Even at this late date, I would like to express my condolences to Maryann and the entire Serra family on the loss of Tom. Sorrow will subside as fond memories replace it. A sense of pride will arise from having had him in your lives.
Toni & Norman
Toni Roy Wells
March 2, 2019
Maryanne, I have just heard of the passing of your beloved husband and am very sorry to hear this news. I have you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. I didn't know Thomas, but have heard many wonderful things about him and how involved he was within the community. I am sure Thomas will be missed by many and you must be so proud to have had him in your life. Again, I wish you heartfelt love in this time of sorrow.
Paul and Patty Nunes
March 2, 2019
Maryann-
So sorry to hear that your husband Tom has passed. Please accept our most sincere condolences.
Bruce/Judy Cox
March 2, 2019
Dear Maryann,
I am so sorry to hear that Tom has passed.
Though only knowing Tom for a short time while teaching in Tolland, I always felt I knew Tom well after playing softball with him through the years. We had many great times! We discussed this a length at the 50th reunion and had some great laughs.
Judy knew Tom from ECSU as we were all alumni. He was always well respected.
Judy and I want to express our sincere and heart felt condolences to You and your Family. He will be missed, and always highly regarded by the Cox's!
All the best!
Judy and Bruce
Mary Sepowitz
March 2, 2019
Dear Maryann, I send my prayers and condolences to you, your family and friends at this very sad and difficult time. Sincerely, Mary Holdridge Sepowitz
Mary Margaret Critcherson-Schlais
March 2, 2019
Dear Maryann and family Condolences to you all. I only met Tom a couple of times when he attended our class reunions with you , he was very friendly and a true joy to spend time with. My he RIP.
Susan Rittenhouse Joseph
March 2, 2019
Dear Maryann and family, My condolences to you at this difficult time. Although I didn't know Tom, he sounds like a vibrant man who lived life to its fullest. Maryann, I'm sure you will draw comfort from your faith and will keep your memories of him close to your heart. May God bless you, your children and all those who loved Tom.
Fred Souza
March 2, 2019
Dear Maryann and Family,
I was shocked to hear of Tom's passing. I know the loss can never be filled, but I hope that the memories you shared and the legacy you will see every day in the faces of your children and grandchildren will always be reminders of the beautiful life you created. Bless you, always, my friend!
Tom Hickman
March 1, 2019
We miss you Tom. I think of you a lot. RIP my friend.
Richard Billings
February 25, 2019
I met Tom on the basketball court in a preseason
basketball game between Middletown & The Morgan
School of Clinton.What a young gentleman he was then.I've followed his career from a distance since that time & was always impressed with him.
May you rest in peace & maybe we can shoot bome hoops in the future.
February 20, 2019
Our sincere condolences to the Serra family. Tom and my father Fred Milardo worked at Vinal Tech and my father had nothing but the best to say about Tom. He will be sorely missed.
Our deepest sympathy,
Lori-Jo Milardo DePatie, Amanda DePatie and the rest of the Milardo Family.
Michael Hood
February 20, 2019
My sincere condolences to the Serra family. Mr. Serra was not only my teacher but a mentor when I started my teaching career at Vinal Tech. He was always a supporter of the school and pillar in the community. He will be deeply missed.
Mike Salafia
February 17, 2019
To all the Serra Family. Tommy will be missed by all, his goodness has touched so many. Connie was my Godfather and we were fortunate to have spent many family gatherings together, so many years ago. May you all be comforted knowing that the mention of Tommy will always bring a smile to someone's face. God bless you all. Mike (Nutzy) and Lea Salafia
Janine Sterry Pittman
February 16, 2019
Dear Maryann & Family, Cousins Joy, Loretta, Joe & Families-
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Take comfort Cousin Tom is at peace. Take care.
Janine Sterry Pittman
Paulette& Carl Fuller
February 16, 2019
R.I.P. Tom! You Will Be Dearly Missed By Everyone!!!! You Were A Caring And Loving Man!!!My Heart Goes Out To Your Wife And Family!!!! So Sad!!! Paulette And Carl Fuller!!!
John Robinson
February 16, 2019
Marian & Family,
I am so saddened to hear of the passing of my good friend Tommy. I will never forget all the great times we had from growing up in Middletown through sports, politics, meetings or just being together. My fondest memory was when you were Mayor Thomas J Serra invited me to have lunch at your home and you prepared your "Famous Tuna Sandwich ". Thanks for being the stand up person and mentor to me and all who served with you. May the good Lord be with the family at such a time as this.
February 16, 2019
To Maryann and the Serra Family, very sorry for your loss. Deb and myself have had the pleasure for known you and Tom. Tom was always taking pleasure in talking about you and the ever growing family. I know he will be missed.
Stan and Debra Stachura, Port St. Lucie, Fl
Dee and Paul
February 16, 2019
We know that our Lord offers you and your family the much-needed peace and comforting love during this difficult time. Our sincere and heart felt condolences to Maryanne, Joe and your entire family.
Tom had profoundly touched us both with his caring and grace. He will live and be reflected in the heart of Middletown forever.
February 15, 2019
Formica family
Our deepest sympathy to you Nd your family. Tom was so loved. God bless.
Jack Botti
February 15, 2019
To the Serra Family, please accept our deepest condolences. Tom was a great guy and he did so much for the school system and the City of Middletown in many ways, he will be missed but not forgotten.
The Botti Family
Jim D'Antonio
February 15, 2019
Our deepest Condolences to the Serra family. Always much respect for Tom.
Jim D'Antonio
Lisa Ross
Rick Tanasi
February 15, 2019
Sincerest Condolences to the Serra family. Tom was great leader and Icon for the Vocational Technical School system. Both my dad and myself had the opportunity to have worked with Tom.
Rick Tanasi,Gene Tanasi
Franklin James
February 15, 2019
To the family I'm so sorry for your loss standing here in this line at the service I see your Husband and dad touched so many people . Mr Serra u will be missed . Franklin James
Paul Rebot
February 15, 2019
Maryann and family we offer our sincere condolences on your loss Tom was a good friend and fellow administrator. He gave freely of himself and liked being a teacher, administrator and civic servant Knowing Tom the role he loved and cherished most was husband, father, and family, God bless RIP my friend.
Paul and Carol Rebot
February 15, 2019
Back in the 70's I was truly Blessed to be taught in the Tolland School System by Mr. Serra & Miss Saporita. They inspired me so much. That was many years ago. But I just wanted to reach out and express my sympathies for your loss. Thanks for the inspiration. Tom Tantillo
Tony Milardo
February 15, 2019
Maryann, Jason, Christopher and family, sorry I can't be there. From Melilli my condolences from Paula and I . I am deeply saddened of the passing of dear friend. Our prayers and thoughts are with you. He will never forgotten and will remain in our memories! May he R.I. P Tony and Paula Milardo ,Maryann, Jason, Christopher and family, sorry I can't be there. From Melilli my condolences from Paula and I . I am deeply saddened of the passing of dear friend. Our prayers and thoughts are with you. He will never forgotten and will remain in our memories! May he R.I. P Tony and Paula Milardo
Linda Hunter-Watson
February 15, 2019
Jason, I am sorry for your loss. Your father will truly be missed. Sending prayers of comfort to you and your family.
February 15, 2019
Please accept my warmhearted condolences. Sandy Streeter Sievers
February 15, 2019
Kindly accept our most heartfelt condolences. The Middletown community has lost a great man, a man of the people. He will be missed dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Seb, Anna, Sal & John Emanuele
Jesse and Debbie Hunter
February 15, 2019
Maryann, Jason, Chris and family, it goes without saying that we who love you grieve with you on the loss of this remarkable man. He will most definitely be missed for his generosity, humor, guidance and love. Our thoughts are with you in the hard days ahead. Wishing you comfort and eventually peace.
Alice June Thompson
February 14, 2019
Thank you for your remarkable life, Tom. Your example of kindness, courage, compassion and service lives on forever. My parents loved being neighbors with you and your family on Sisk Street. Rest in eternal peace.
February 14, 2019
We will miss you Cousin Tom. i will always remember the good times with all of the family together on holidays. You were always there for us.
Tim Woodcock and family.
Peggy Scribner
February 14, 2019
Dearest Maryann and family, I am sorry to hear of Tom's passing. Your family created a thousand lovely moments that will continue to live in the memory of your hearts forever. Know you and yours will be in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs to you, Peg Scribner
Mike Bantle
February 14, 2019
My deepest sympathies. He had quite an impact on my teaching career at Vinal Tech. Mike Bantle
Mary Ellen Klinck
February 14, 2019
My sincere love and
Sympathy to all his loving family. Tom was a good friend and will be missed by so many .
It was my pleasure to present him with the
Gov. O'Neill award. A great guy .R.I.P.
Much love.
Mary Ellen Klinck
February 14, 2019
Maryann and Family.
The entire MHS 1964 Reunion Committee has had Tom foremost in our thoughts and prayers over the past several months and we are all saddened by his loss.
We hope a lifetime of wonderful memories will sustain you through this difficult time.
Bill and Diane Russell, Naples, FL
February 14, 2019
Very sorry for the lost of your loved one May God the hearer of prayers comfort you during this difficult time and give you strength. 2 cor. 1:4
Paul Serra,Jr
February 13, 2019
To Maryann Serra.Joe Serra.Loretta and Joy.
We ,Paul and Linda Serra Jr..Jimmy Serra and Joe Serra send our condolences. Due to health problems we are sorry we couldn't attend. Tom was very much loved by all of us. He will be missed.
Lisa Magnano
February 13, 2019
I'm very sad to hear the news of Tom's passing. My prayers go out to the entire family. What a loss, not only for the family but to the entire city. I will always be grateful for the role he played in my son's career path. May God be with Maryann, Jason, and Chris and their families giving them comfort. May you all find peace in knowing how loved and respected that Tom was.
February 13, 2019
To the Wonderful Serra family - our thoughts are with you during this sad time. Such a terrible loss for Middletown and all of his many friends and family. Our Deepest sympathy..
Richard Uliano
Carol Cambareri
Venice, Florida
joseph & Jennifer carta
February 13, 2019
We will miss and love you always.
Sandra Tine Williams
February 13, 2019
So sorry to hear of your loss.
Grace Montie
February 13, 2019
With heartfelt sympathy. So sorry Joe. Especially so sorry Lorretta. I am not home or I would be attending the funeral
Love Grace Montie
Virginia Amendola
February 13, 2019
Dear Mrs. Serra and The Serra Family,
Sending our deepest sympathy. We will never forget what a friend and mentor Mr. Serra was to Anthony. Our thoughts and prayers.
The Amendola Family
Joanne Abbamondi
February 13, 2019
I would like to extend sincerest sympathy and loving thoughts to MaryAnn and family from Connie Milardo, David Milardo, myself (Joanne Milardo Abbamondi), my husband (Christopher), and the Vinal RVTS Class of 1984. When I first met Tom in his freshman English class, he realized that I was Connie's daughter, and he proceeded to call me Connie and smile. Many blessings.
February 13, 2019
Dear Maryann & Family,
Please accept our heartfelt condolences. Words can not justify Tommy's presence in our lives. Since my earliest recollections Tommy was an individual that I was proud to call a friend. My you rest in peace Mayor, friend and classmate forever.
- Dennis & Lynn LaChase
February 13, 2019
Maryann and family please accept our heartfelt condolences words can never justify Tommy,s presence in our lives.from my earliest recollections he was an individual I am proud to call a friend .rest in peace Mayor. Classmate and friend forever Dennis and Lynn LaChase
Joe & Ginny Virgadula
February 13, 2019
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Serra family at this sad time. We are so sorry for your loss.
Lucille and Art Carbo
February 13, 2019
Dear Maryann and The Serra Family,
Our hearts are saddened to hear of Tommy's passing. Our prayers and thoughts are with you all. With Love, Cousins Lucille & Art
Terry, Wendy O'rourke
February 13, 2019
r i p Tom my thoughts with you family. Sorry Joe for your loss
Dianna Rafferty
February 13, 2019
Dear Maryann and family, I send my sympathy and prayers on Tom's passing. He's gone too young, leaving the world a better place than he found it. I am so sorry.
February 13, 2019
To the Serra family,our thoughts and prayers are with you at this terrible time.Tom was a very kind and thoughtful man, cherish the many wonderful memories. Tom & Betty Reynolds, Haddam
Hennie Budnik
February 13, 2019
Maryann,Jason,Chris
My heart is so saddened on the loss of your very special husband and father.He was such a powerful force in so many lives.May all the wonderful memories help to sustained you as face the days and months ahead.
."So long as we live he too shall live as he is always a part of you and We REMEMBER THEM"
Love to you all..Always
Hennie,Michele,Marc
Judi O'Brien Durham
February 13, 2019
Maryann and the entire Serra family,
There are no words to describe this selfless man who gave his all to his family, friends and community. He was always the first to take on action items in planning our MHS reunions over the years, despite his involvement in multiple civic endeavors. My heartfelt sympathy to all who knew and loved him.
Donna Gecewicz
February 13, 2019
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. Tom was a great man always trying to help someone out. A great loss.
February 13, 2019
Button hook pass right, left end cross over, comeback pass blocking on two. I'll never forget those words in the huddle. It meant a Tom Serra touchdown! Thanks for the memories.
1963 Team mate, Middletown High Tigers.
Louis Frangione
February 13, 2019
My thoughts and prayers are with you Mrs. Serra, Jay, and Chris, and the rest of your family. Your father was a great person, and he will be truly missed. I have nothing but great memories with your dad. May he rest in peace.
Donna Brown
February 13, 2019
To the Serra family, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Tom, " Mr. Serra". He was a great Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother, Teacher, and Mayor to the city of Middletown. I will never forget what a wonderful man he was in more ways than one. My heart is filled with sadness and so many memories of happy times. He was a great mentor to me and many others. He gave whatever he could to myself and the many Vinal Students that were lucky to have him as a Teacher and friend. I hold the up most Respect for him for all he did for all students at Vinal and in his time as Mayor for the city of Middletown. He was in the Town Hall for many years and gave of himself to make the city of Middletown a better place to live. He was so loved by so many lives he touched. He will be missed by so many people that respected and loved him. Always smiling and positive for so many years, my heart is filled with so many Happy memories, he will be missed and never forgotten. My condolences to the Serra Family, you are all in my thoughts and Prayers.
Sincerely, Donna Linares Brown, Husband James Brown and Family
Dorrie Marino
February 13, 2019
Maryann and family...Rich and I were saddened to hear of Tom's passing. He was a man devoted to his family..his church and his city. May he rest In peace.Deepest sympathies Cousin Richard and Dorrie
JOHN LOCKWOOD
February 13, 2019
SORRY FOR YOUR LOOS
RAYMOND D'AMATO.M.D.
February 13, 2019
,God bless you and rest in peace, Tom, and though we have not been close over the last years I have always considered you a good friend. We were part of the North End kids growing up on High Street a bond I think that lasts forever. We played together all the time. I especially enjoyed our frequent whiffle ball games played on the road; I'm not sure that I ever was able to beat you. I enjoyed the years we played for Harry's Auto including the year we won the Ahern Whallen championship. You also helped me getting home on Fridays from UCONN. I know how devoted you are to family; how sincere you were taking care of Connie when he would come to my office for an appointment. Though I have not lived in Middletown since marriage I have always been proud as you to say my hometown is Middletown. Rest in peace, Tom, you have lived a gracious and perfect life. My sympathies to your loving family.
Claire Janowski
February 13, 2019
Maryann,
So sorry to hear Tommy passed away. Please accept my deepest condolences for your terrible loss.
I will miss his presence and will always remember all the good things he has done for the Middletown Community.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Maria Erdman
February 12, 2019
Cousin Tommy will be missed. Sending love and prayers.
Steve LaRosa
February 12, 2019
MaryAnn, Jay, and Chris. My heart is torn in two, I am so sorry and will hold you in my prayers. He will always hold a special place in my heart. May god bless you
Hope Kasper
February 12, 2019
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
February 12, 2019
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Belinda Salvestrini
February 12, 2019
Mr.Serra you will be missed. I remember what a great teacher you were to me. You taught me to believe in myself and gave me strength when I needed it and never gave up on your students. You gave us such endless possibilities and I will always be grateful. Thank you! Rest in peace! Belinda
Lexy Filer
February 12, 2019
Maryann, Jason, Chris and family. I am very sorry to hear about the passing of your husband/father. We are sending our condolences and keeping you all in our prayers. My memory of Tom was when he attended our soccer games back when Chris and I were on the same Middletown Youth Soccer team. Also we can't forget when he was our mayor of Middletown, which he lead middletown's community in a positive direction.
Frank Violissi
February 12, 2019
Sending prayers, love n miss you Tommy RIP
Melissa King
February 12, 2019
Maryann, Jason,Chris, and family. I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your husband/father. Please know that I have been thinking of you all during this difficult time. Sending prayers.
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