Thomas G. Fernandes

Naugatuck - Thomas Fernandes, a resident of Naugatuck, passed away September 1, 2025 at his home. He was a 1967 graduate of Naugatuck High School.

Born on September 17, 1949, in Fall River, MA, to Antone Fernandes & Irene Fernandes-Janousek, Tom’s love for cooking was a true art form. He spent countless hours in the kitchen as an executive chef at Across from the Horse, Red Bull, 1249 West, Waverly Tavern, & Carmen Anthony’s Restaurants. He was instrumental in creating menus, staffing, and day-to-day management of the kitchen. During his career, he was voted by CT magazine for the best crab cake of the year.

Away from the stove, Tom was an avid and dedicated sports fan. He was a passionate supporter of the New York Yankees and the New York Giants. More than just watching professional sports, he loved to coach as well as participate in baseball & basketball. He played basketball at Waterbury Community College. Above all else, he was a highly regarded mentor to many people struggling with addiction.

Tom is survived by sisters, Jeanine LeVasseur & husband Gordon, Joanne Fernandes & fiancé Louis, Reverend Linda Fernandes-Bailey & husband James. He is also survived by son, Thomas J. Fernandes & wife Shawna, daughter, Rachel Gritzer & husband Joseph, sons Michael Danisevich & Tyler Fernandes, as well as grandchildren, Thomas, Evan, Ryan, Brett Fernandes & Annalise Gritzer, and several nieces & nephews. Tom is predeceased by his sister Carol Fernandes & her husband Bill.

Arrangements – Visitation will be held on Sunday, September 7, 2025, from 2 to 4 pm at the Buckmiller Ford Mengacci Funeral Home, 82 Fairview Ave. Naugatuck. A service will conclude visitation at 4 pm. Burial will be held at the convenience of the family in St. James Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wolcott Youth Center, 48 Todd Rd., Wolcott, CT 06716.