Thomas D. Eaton

1953 - 2026

Thomas D. Eaton
"Loving husband, father, grandfather & brother"
Thomas D. Eaton, 72, of Naugatuck, CT, entered into the gates of Heaven on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was the devoted and adoring husband of Carol (Alves) Eaton, with whom he shared 36 years of marriage.
Tom was born in Derby, CT on November 24, 1953, son of the late Gerald and MaryAnn (Wardle) Eaton. He was a graduate of Seymour High School and earned his bachelor's degree in business from Post University. Tom worked for Bridgeport Brass, which later became Seymour Specialty Wire. He went on to work in the finance industry, employed by WorldTek Travel and Dooney & Bourke.
Tom was a very talented musician. His passion was playing the horn. He marched in several prominent drum corps throughout Connecticut, including Saint Aedan's Emerald Cadets, the Connecticut Hurricanes, and was a founding member of Park City Pride and the Connecticut Alumni. He was called upon throughout the area to play the National Anthem and Taps at military funerals. He also brought his musical talent to instruct the horn line of area drum corps such as Seymour Vanguards, N.D.-ettes, and Oxford Explorers. He later volunteered as an instructor for high school marching bands, including Shelton and Naugatuck. He was an avid fan of UConn basketball, the New York Yankees, the New York Giants, and loved Mohegan Sun and trips with his best friends, Ed and Mary.
In addition to his wife Carol, Tom leaves to honor and cherish his memory his daughter Kristi Lynn Hofsess of Brookfield, CT, a stepchild Trisha Davis-Gray (Chantelle) of MA; grandchildren Parker, Landon and Anna Hofsess, siblings Richard Eaton of Derby, CT, Donna Spooner (Dave) of Bentonville, AR; Susan Ermer (Al) of Seymour, CT, and predeceased by his brother Kevin Eaton (Lisa). As well as several beloved nieces and nephews.
Arrangements: Calling hours will be held on Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Brookside Memorial/The Albini Family Funeral Home & Crematory, 200 Benson Road, Middlebury. A funeral service will be held Friday at the funeral home from 10:00-11:00 a.m. All other services will be private and at the convenience of the family.
Donations: In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Tom and with gratitude to Dr. Mike and Dr. Chung can be made to the Smilow Cancer Hospital, 350 Seymour Avenue, Derby, CT 06418.