THOMAS HELMACY

Thomas C. Helmacy, 89, of Meshoppen, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 27, 2024.

Thom was born April 9, 1935, to the late Louis and Ethel Helmacy. He now joins "his bride", Florence 'Tootie' Helmacy of 30 years.

Thom was born in Franklin, N.J., where he graduated high school in 1952. He then proudly served in the United States Air Force in the Korean War as a Sergeant. As a veteran, he went on to receive his Bachelor's degree from Connecticut Central State College and then to University of Bridgeport graduating with his Master's degree in Education.

Thom was a manager at Sikorsky Aircraft in Stafford, Conn., and retired in 1995 after 32 years of dedicated employment. He and his bride Tootie moved to Susquehanna County that same year. He treasured every day spent in Pennsylvania.

There, he was a member of the South Auburn Grange #1188, a director on the Susquehanna County Farm Bureau and was very active in the maple syrup community. Living on a farm was Thom's solace. His passion was being a farmer and making maple syrup.

Thom had an infectious smile that everyone knew. He was 'The Mayor' to many and generous to a fault. He was an amazing dad, incredible 'grandpops' and the best big brother. He will be sorely missed by everyone who had the chance to meet him.

Left to cherish his precious memories are his children: Mary-Ellen Downing of Summerville, S.C., Louis (Sarah) Helmacy of Towson, Md., Joan (Barry) Pulliam of Westfield, N.J., Jill (Chris) Rogoz of Prospect, Conn., Christine Eckman of Gettysburg, Stephen Franek of Gettysburg, and Michael (Debbie) Franek of Branchville, N.J.; his 10 grandchildren; two great granddaughters; his siblings: Diane Melecie of St. Petersburg, Fla., James (Lorraine) White of Monterey, Va., William (Caroline) White of Franklin Township, Wanda (Harvey) Cohen of Locke, N.Y., Sue Ellen Helmacy of Sussex, N.J.; and many nieces and nephews.

Thom was predeceased by his bride, Tootie; children: Stephanie Pezzato and Mark Franek; granddaughter, Kerri Rogoz; and brother, Douglas Paul Helmacy.

A funeral service was held at the Sheldon Funeral Home, 8206 Main Street, Meshoppen, on Monday morning, July 8, preceded by a Memorial Grange Service to be conducted by members of the South Auburn Grange #1188. Family and friends may call at the funeral home from 10 a.m., until the time of service. A Committal and Military Honors Service will follow at Jersey Hill Cemetery in Meshoppen with the Military Honors Service being conducted by the Rought Hall American Legion Post #510 in Black Walnut and the Dennis Strong American Legion Post #457 in Tunkhannock.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the South Auburn Grange #1188, c/o Charlene Tewksbury, 1630 SR 3001, Meshoppen, PA, 18630.