Thomas E. Francesconi, from Pennsauken, formerly of Camden, passed away on May 6, 2024, in Fort Myers, Florida. Loving husband of Marie (Nardi) for 56 years. Devoted father of Thomas (Maria), Rosemarie (Austin) Duus, Valerie (Charles) Wigginton, and Joseph. Devoted grandfather of Victoria, Cecilia, Thomas, Charlie, Caroline, Joseph, Bella, and Giolina. Brother-in-law of Dorothy Francesconi and Barbara Nardi. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Predeceased by his parents Vallie J. and Rose Mattie, brother Ronald V., brothers-in-law, Honorable Joseph M. Nardi Jr. and Frank Nardi, and sister-in-law, Rita Nardi.
Thomas was born in Camden, NJ. Attended Woodrow Wilson High School, Class of 1951, and Temple University. He served in the US Army from May 1953 to May 1955. After graduating Temple, he went on to the Mortgage and Banking Industry. He was introduced to his wife Marie by a bank employee who knew they both enjoyed skiing. In June of 1967, Tom and Marie married, moved to Pennsauken, and started a family. The two enjoyed traveling and took their children on road trips across the country and down south to Florida enjoying many special Disney vacations. Tom was an active member of the Camden Rotary, where he held the office of treasurer, vice president and president. Tom and Marie continued to travel with Rotary Internationally. They instilled the love of travel and service in their children and grandchildren. Tom was a two-time recipient of the Paul Harris Award for his dedication to service and the Camden Rotary for over 50 years. He was a man of faith, a parishioner of Mary Queen of all Saints (formally St. Cecilia’s) for over 50 years and faithfully attended Malvern retreats for over 40 years. Tom was an avid foodie, having started a monthly cooking club with friends. He enjoyed sharing recipes with his grandchildren, especially the coveted gnocchi recipe. And for many years made his famous crab cakes for the annual Christmas Eve family gathering.
Tom and Marie enjoyed many summers at their Woodbine home and the past 15 winters in Cape Coral, Fl. They made memories with their family as well as with a new close-knit group of friends in Cape Coral, with whom they shared similar interests.
Tom had a unique relationship with each of his family members and friends that will be cherished. Known as Big Tom to his beloved grandchildren, he forged individual relationships with each that they will always treasure.
A viewing will be held at Terranova Funeral Home 402 White Horse Pike, Haddon Heights, NJ 08035, on Wednesday May 15, 2024, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. and Thursday morning, May 16, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Mary Queen of All Saints 4842 Camden Avenue, Pennsauken, NJ 08110 at 11:00 a.m. Interment to follow at Calvary Cemetery 2398 Marlton Pike W, Cherry Hill, NJ 08002.
Donations in his memory can be made to a Camden Charity of your choice.
