Thomas Couto

Thomas M. Couto, 94

PAXTON/WEST WARWICK, RI - Thomas M. Couto, 94, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 24, 2021, at Knollwood Nursing Center after an illness. Born and raised in West Warwick, Rhode Island, Tom was the son of Manuel and Esther (Brown) Couto and lived the last 15 years in Paxton.

After graduating high school, Tom enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he honorably served his country during World War II as a Navy Seabee. He served with the 9th Naval Construction Battalion in the Asiatic-Pacific Theatre of operations.

He owned and operated the Arctic Cafe in West Warwick for many years before retiring to Paxton in 2005. He was a lifetime member of the Elks in West Warwick, RI. Tom loved being in the presence of people and particularly enjoyed spending time with his family. Tom was a proud boat owner and loved to sail to the many ports throughout New England. He also loved to travel and enjoyed spending time in the Caribbean.

Tom is survived by his grandchildren, Heather L. Dyer and her husband, John of Holden; Nathan S. Wood and his wife, Ali of Hudson, NH and Ryan D. Wood and his wife, Molly of Bethlehem, PA; four great-grandchildren, Jacob and Paige Williams, and Eamon and Neve Wood; a son in law, David Wood of Jefferson; a sister, Marion Smith of Florida and brother, Edward of RI and many nephews and nieces. Besides his parents, Tom is predeceased by his daughter, Carolyn Wood, former wife, Rita C. (Brouillard) Couto, brother, James and sisters, Janie and Esther.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Tom's family from 9:30 am to 10:30 am on Thursday, January 28, at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden, followed by a procession to St. Mary's Church 114 Princeton St., Jefferson for a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 11 am. Out of love and consideration for Tom's family and those gathering, social distancing and facial masks are required. Interment will take place privately in the spring at Grove Cemetery in Holden. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Seabee Historical Foundation. PO Box 657, Gulfport, MS 39502

To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit

www.milesfuneralhome.com.