Thomas Francis Lynch

LYNCH Thomas Francis Lynch, age 96, beloved patriarch of the Lynch clan, a resident of the Lordship section of Stratford for the past 58 years, entered eternal life on Monday, January 10, 2011. He was a devoted father to Reverend Thomas F. Lynch, Pastor of St. James Roman Catholic Church, Stratford, Bernadette Lynch of Stratford, Sister Deborah Lynch of the Sisters of St. Dominic of Caldwell, New Jersey, Bridget, wife of James Pardee of Hopedale, Mass., Darby, wife of John Ruby of Stratford, and Meg, wife of Robert Fiscella of Newtown, and the late Maureen Ringel wife of Jack Ringel of Fairfield. Thomas was the caring grandfather of 16 grandchildren, Jon Ringel, Marna Ringel, Marcy Ringel Barrett, Marisa Ringel, Margaret Ringel Murphy, Thomas (TJ) Ringel, Danielle Golino Howarth, Darby, Dana and Deidra Golino, Christopher and Jamie Pardee, Tara, John, Andrew, and Darcy Fiscella. He was also the great-grandfather of Cooper and Jacqueline Soderlund, Briggs, Willow, and Rex Barrett, Lucy Murphy, Hannah and Mae Ringel, and McClain Howarth. Tom was married for 62 years to the love of his life, the late Barbara Clancy Lynch. He is the brother of Raymond Lynch of Stratford and uncle to many nieces and nephews. He was prede-ceased by his brothers, John and William, and sisters Marian Zmijewski and Irene Schwartz. Thomas was son of the late Thomas J. Lynch and late Bridget C. Lynch. He graduated from Harding High School, Class of 1932, and began a career with Remington Arms Dupont Company. He spent 44 years there as an accountant. Upon his retirement, Barbara and Tom traveled, visiting many places, especially Ireland, the home of Tom's parents. His love and devotion for his wife was everlasting. During her illness, he planted a large rose garden so she could look at her favorite flowers. Tom was an avid gardener and spent many long hours nurturing his beautiful flowers and vegetables. He shared his love of gardening with many of his children and grandchildren. In his later years, his love of accounting evolved into a passion for picking horses in The Kentucky Derby, Preakness, Travers, and Belmont Stakes. St. Patrick's Day was his favorite holiday during which he prepared and hosted his home-cooked corned beef dinner for family and friends alike. His deep faith in the Lord was very much a part of his daily life. He lived out his faith by generously breaking bread with anyone who came to his table. The Lynch family thanks the staff of the Carolton Chronic Convalescent Home and especially the Tortora family for their wonderful care and kindness. We also want to thank the many Good Samaritans of Lordship who shared friendly hellos and many helping hands to our Dad throughout the years. Friends are invited to attend his funeral on Saturday, January 15th at 10 a.m. at St. James Church, 2110 Main Street, Stratford for a Mass of Christian Burial. Interment will be in St. Michael's Cemetery next to his beloved wife, Barbara and mother, Bridget. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Care of Our Father's House, c/o St. James Church, 2110 Main St., Stratford, CT or The Maureen Lynch Ringel Resource Center, Care of St. Vincent Foundation, 2800 Main Street Bridgeport, CT 06606. Friends may call Friday, January 14th, from 3 to 8 p.m. at St. James Church, 2110 Main St., Stratford. The William McDonald Funeral Home, 2591 main St., Straford is in care of arrangements.