Thomas Roth

Thomas Roth 1945-2025

A true icon, known for his warmth, infectious laugh, entrepreneurial spirit, and love for a great gathering with friends and family. Thomas Roth, 80, of Westport, CT, died on August 10, 2025, a month after his diagnosis with cancer.

Born in New York City in 1945 to Louis and Blanche Roth. He and his brothers Edwin and Barry moved to Roslyn Heights, Long Island in 1947. He graduated from Herricks High School in 1963. Tom worked at the Snow White Bakery located around the corner from their house. The brothers report he almost put them out of business because he ate or gave away so many of the pastries… specifically the Conga Layer Cake.

Tom met his wife who he lovingly referred to as "The Lovely and Beautiful" or "Therese…" in 1983 at a fabric trade show in Los Angeles. Theresa owning a fabric store, and Tom being a fabric manufacturer, set their romantic fate. Their marriage was rich in conversation, travel, and a loving circle of adoring friends and family.

With Theresa came Tom's two children, Michael and Anne. He told them often "I didn't just marry your mother. I married you two as well. I won the lottery." The sentiment is resoundingly mutual.

The real joy came with his six grandchildren; Jack, Ryan, Mason, Colin, Miles, and Ellie. Known to never miss a game, he traveled all over the country to watch lacrosse, football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and softball. Not an athlete himself, he was a quiet but dedicated fan. He also took in many School of Rock concerts and school plays, and always treated the kids to celebratory ice cream or flowers.

From elementary school through late adulthood, the bond with his friends was beyond measure and everlasting. Truly an extension of his family. Up until his final days he reminded us, "I love my friends."

Tom, known to be "always working", was passionate about all of his businesses. He had a deep appreciation for beautiful objects and surroundings. His eye for design was unmatched. He skillfully blended new and vintage pieces to elevate any space.

In his search for a location to establish his family, for Tom, the choice was clear. Westport, offering an eclectic artsy community with a thriving Jewish population and all on Long Island Sound, he knew Westport was the perfect fit. A favorite quote which sums up Tom as a boater:

"There is nothing - absolutely nothing - half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats" - Kenneth Grahame Wind in the Willows

His memory will live on in so many of our hearts.

Tom is survived by his brothers Edwin and his wife Joan, Barry and his wife Anneli, and also his chosen brother Peter Arest. His wife of 42 years, Theresa, their children Michael Chaney, his wife Christine, Anne Delorier and her husband Chris. In addition, his great joy, his grandchildren, Jack, Ryan and Colin Chaney, and Mason, Miles, and Ellie Delorier. Many nieces, nephews and cousins.

The family is holding a private remembrance.

In Tom's honor donations to The Glioblastoma Foundation are warmly appreciated. www.glioblastomafoundation.org