James Thomas "Tom" Flatley

James Thomas "Tom" Flatley, 86, of Pittsfield, MA passed away peacefully on Monday, September 1st, 2025, with his loving family by his side in the comfort of his home. Born on April 6, 1939 in Queens, New York, Tom was the son of the late James William Flatley and Marion Elizabeth (Crowe) Flatley.
Tom graduated from Saint Dominic High School (Oyster Bay, NY) in 1956 and proudly served in the United States Navy as an Electrician's Mate Second Class aboard the aircraft carrier USS Kearsarge from 1958 to 1962. Tom often reflected upon his time in the Navy, describing his role in providing relief and recovery efforts following Typhoon Vera in Japan in 1959. He held a deep sense of pride in his military service, which left a lasting impact on him, shaping both his character and the values he held dear throughout his life.
Following his military service, Tom pursued a diverse range of careers, including stints in manufacturing (in New York and Florida), clamming off Long Island NY, and long-haul trucking throughout the eastern United States. However, the majority of his professional life was devoted to his work as a self-employed electrician. Operating as J. Thomas Flatley Electrician, he proudly served clients in both New York and Massachusetts until his well-earned retirement in 2019.
Tom was a Christian man who held his deep faith close to his heart throughout his life. He was strong and grounded in his love for God; his faith provided him with the courage and strength to face life's challenges with grace.
Tom had many passions that brought him joy throughout his life, including cooking, gardening, boating, and snowmobiling. He was particularly fond of grilling, owning many outdoor grills over the years, and always eager to try the latest tools and techniques. A true seafood lover, Tom often reminisced about the time he had to use a sledgehammer to crack the claws of a massive 12-pound lobster!
His devotion to family was unwavering, and he especially cherished sharing the pleasure of being on or near the water with his children and grandchildren. Above all, Tom was a devoted husband to his wife, Bernadette; he adored her deeply, and the relationship was one of love, respect, and steadfast commitment. He cherished her presence in his life and remained a loving and devoted partner throughout their 50 years together.
Survivors include his beloved wife, Bernadette Ann (Annunziato) Flatley, whom he married on September 10, 1977; two daughters, Bernadette (Charlie) Gomez of Shirley, NY, and Deanna (Gary) Traversa of East Otis, MA; and one son, Thomas J. (Elizabeth) Flatley of Lanesborough, MA. He also leaves behind six grandchildren: Talia, Luca, Christian, Jace, Giada, and Hudson. Additionally, Tom is survived by two brothers, Jack (Eileen) Flatley of Ft. Myers, FL, and Donald Flatley of Palm Harbor, FL, as well as many nieces and nephews who were dear to him. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Marilyn Kemp.
FUNERAL NOTICE: The funeral for Tom Flatley will be Saturday, September 20, 2025 at 10:30 AM at the Church of Christ, 826 Valentine Rd., Pittsfield, MA. Calling hours at FLYNN & DAGNOLI-BENCIVENGA FUNERAL HOME, 5 Elm St. Pittsfield, MA are Friday, September 19, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Memorial donations may be made to Soldier On, Inc., 360 West Housatonic St. Pittsfield, MA 01201 or in care of the funeral home. To add to the Book of Memories, please visit www.flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com