Thomas Charles "Tom" Evans

1938 - 2024

Waterford - Thomas "Tom" Charles Evans, 86, passed away peacefully Sept. 24, 2024, surrounded by loving family. A Norwich native, Tom was born to Theresa and William Evans June 6, 1938, at William W. Backus Hospital and was the third of three children, following older brothers, William and Robert.

He attended St. Mary's School in Greeneville, before graduating from Norwich Free Academy in 1956. At NFA, he met his future bride, Susan Browning. He graduated from Holy Cross College in 1960, while also accepting a commission in the U.S. Air Force. That same year he married Susan, and began his pilot training in Big Spring, Texas. The family welcomed sons Tom Jr., David and Richard, and finally daughter, Karin, all while juggling deployments around the states and internationally to Iceland and Korea. As an accomplished pilot and captain, Tom left the Air Force in 1969, to accept a position as pilot for Braniff Airlines, thus taking the family to Dallas, Texas. When Braniff filed for bankruptcy in 1982, Tom started his new career as sales manager with the Kawneer Co. until his retirement in 1998.

Tom and Sue settled back home in Pleasure Beach, while also enjoying winter stints in Florida. Tom loved playing and watching sports, especially baseball and his beloved Red Sox. Golf was his passion; his longtime golf buddies nicknamed him "boring" for his consistent shots straight down the fairway. His many friends will remember Tom for his dry wit and quick sense of humor.

Tom is survived by Sue, his wife of 64 years; his children, Tom (wife Alison), David (wife Melanie), Richard (wife Mary) and Karin (husband John); as well as ten grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Bayview Healthcare facility for their loving care in his final days. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donating to the Alzheimer's Association, Connecticut Chapter, at 200 Executive Blvd. S-4B, Southington, CT 06489, or the charity of your choice.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 24, at St. Agnes Church, Haigh Avenue, Niantic. Online condolences may be shared at www.neilanfuneralhome.com.