Thomas J. Carreiro

Thomas J. Carreiro 91, of Bradford Avenue, Fall River, beloved husband of over 66 years to the late Patricia A. Carreiro, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on January 15, 2023. He was the son of the late Mary Thomas (Thomas) and the late Manuel Carreiro. Tom is survived by his children Kathleen M. Fowler and husband David of Cocoa Beach, Florida, Steven T. Carreiro and fiancée Jennifer Bryant of Plympton, Christopher J. Carreiro of Dartmouth (partner Elizabeth Branconnier) and Paula Mailloux and husband John of Westport, as well as his grandchildren Jason Carreiro (partner Jamie Lacroix), Rachael Manasco (husband David), Brittany Alfaro (partner Justin Nyman), Mason Carreiro, Nicholas Bryant, great grandchild Jacob Carreiro, and cousins Joan Thomas and Paul Thomas.

Tom, a lifelong resident of Fall River, MA, graduated from BMC Durfee High School and worked at Firestone Corp. before joining the military in 1951 during the Korean War. He served in the National Guard and then the Army as an infantryman in the First Infantry Division, “The Big Red One.” After his tour of duty, Tom, best known as “Thom the Barber,” owned and operated Thom’s Barber Shop for over 40 years. He was a well-respected member of the community and many friendships were formed at his shop located on Bradford Avenue. Tom retired in October, 1999 to spend more time with his family, especially his best friend and the love of his life, Patricia.

Although a barber by trade, Tom was also a talented artist and carpenter. Woodworking, furniture building, wood carvings and stained-glass creations were among his many undertakings. He was also an accomplished musician, playing the clarinet and saxophone. His musical talent did not go unnoticed while in the Army as he was invited to perform with the renowned First Infantry Division Band. They played for the Queen of the Netherlands, other dignitaries throughout Europe and even performed on the Ed Sullivan Show in New York City.

A loving son, devoted husband and caring father, family and friendships were the most cherished values in his life. Nothing gave him more joy than spending time with his family. Annual summer trips to New Hampshire and winter ski trips up North provided many laughs and great memories. Sundays were always about family. Whether it was a drive for ice cream, a trip out to the country or the many day-long outings to South Shore Beach, everything revolved around his family.

Married for over 66 years, Tom and Pat were inseparable. They truly enjoyed life together, travelling extensively and creating many fond memories. Tom always said he was the luckiest man alive and what a wonderful life he had with Pat. Their life together was a true love story.

Thank you all for your love and support during this very difficult time. A special thank you to Helen Carrier, a very close friend of the family, who was always there for Pat and Tom.

Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday, January 25, from 5:00-7:00 pm, followed by a short service with Military Funeral Honors at Auclair Funeral Home, 690 South Main St, Fall River. Per Tom’s wishes his body was donated to Harvard Medical School Anatomical Gift Program.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St Jude
Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or online at stjude.org/donatetoday.