Thomas A. “ Smiles” Pepe, age 90, of Orange formerly of Beacon Falls and Derby, passed away peacefully on Tuesday May 3, 2011 in his home with his loving family by his side.
He was the loving husband of 60 years to Mary (Ajello) Pepe.
He was born in Derby on Dec. 8, 1920 son of the late Arcangelo and Rachel (Chirico) Pepe and was a lifelong resident of Derby until recently moving to Beacon Falls and then Orange.
Thomas retired as a Sergeant of the Derby Police Department in 1984 after 32 years of service to the City of Derby.
He loved his job and serving the residents of Derby.
Thomas was a proud Navy Veteran serving during W.W.II. He was stationed on the USS Augusta, which was the flag ship during the invasion of Normandy and was also involved in several battles in North Africa and Southern France.
He was a member of the American Legion and enjoyed Hunting and Competitive Pistol Shooting in his earlier years.
Thomas enjoyed traveling throughout New England with his wife.
The family wishes to thank the staff of Sol Amor Hospice for the wonderful care they gave to Thomas.
He is the beloved father of A. Thomas Pepe and his wife Elizabeth of Cheshire and Donna Canetti and her husband Ernest of Beacon Falls.
He is also survived by a sister, Madeline Wyka and several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by three brothers, Louis, Owney and Frank Pepe and a sister, Mary McEvoy.
His funeral was private.
Contributions in Mr. Pepe’s memory may be made to Beacon Hose Co. #1, 35 Main St., Beacon Falls, CT 06403.
The Edward F. Adzima Funeral Home 253 Elizabeth St. Derby is entrusted with the arrangements.
