Thomas Francis Cleary, Usher at St. Agnes Church, dies at 95

Thomas Francis Cleary, age 95, longtime resident of Milford and beloved husband to the late Mary Jane Ryan Cleary, passed away on Thursday, March 28, 2013 at home surrounded by his loving family.

Born on August 19, 1917 in New Haven, he was the son of the late Thomas J. and Anne Malone Cleary. Thomas served with great pride and honor during WWII in the US Army participating in the battles of Omaha Beach and Hurtgen Forest. 

Prior to his retirement, he was route salesman for Marcus Dairy. He was an usher at St. Agnes Church for many years. Thomas was well known in his neighborhood as an accomplished handyman, where he enjoyed being able to fix anything. He was well known for his love of dancing at many family functions.

Generous and kind, Thomas was a loving father, grandfather and brother who delighted in spending time with his grandchildren and will be sadly missed. 

He is survived by his son, Kevin Cleary and his wife Leslie of Milford; grandchildren, Patrick, Brendan, Nolan and Meghan Cleary; his sister Catherine Gilson of West Haven and many other loving family members and friends. He was predeceased by his sisters, Margaret Gilson, Elizabeth Platt, Eleanor Gilson and his brothers, John and Francis Cleary. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, April 2nd at 11 a.m. at St. Agnes Church, 400 Merwin Ave., Milford, CT. (MEET DIRECTLY AT CHURCH)

Burial to follow at St. Lawrence Cemetery in West Haven with full military honors. Friends and family may call on Monday, April 1st from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Cody-White Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Special Olympics Connecticut, 2666 State St., Ste 1, Hamden, CT 06517.