Thomas Abbott

Thomas F. Abbott, (76), of Jamestown, New York passed away peacefully on August 2, 2023 surrounded by his family. Thomas, affectionately known as Tom, was born to Frank and Georgia Abbott, on January 1, 1947, in Jamestown, New York. While still in high school, he joined the U.S. Navy Reserves and then deployed into active duty to serve in the Vietnam War. After the war, Tom moved to Los Angeles, California where he began working briefly with the U.S. Postal Service before re-enlisting, going on to serve another 27 years of active duty in the U.S. Navy, moving around the country. After his time in the Navy, Tom went back to work for the U.S. Post Office in Columbus, Ohio until his retirement. Tom had a heart for the Lord, a passion for long conversations, and enjoyed telling everyone he knew about God’s word, hoping to save souls in his own unique way. In his later years up until 2016, Tom was active and well-known in the local veteran community, heavily involved with the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and the Celoron Honor Guard, showing his respects not just at graveside memorials but through his involvement as a chapter member. His other activities included weekly gatherings with the local choral group through the Community Music Program located in Jamestown, New York. Tom is survived by his seven children (that we know of), Christine Keitlen, Edye Abbott-Haynes, Suzie (Nick) Ritchie, Christopher (Edisson) Abbott, Becky (Bob) Crosbie, Bethany Abbott, and Jake (Loraine) Banker, along with nine grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Kathy Littrell and brother Ted Abbott. Aside from his passion for the Lord, Tom loved music (playing instruments such as the cello and the bugle, and participated in the choir) from the time he was in high school, was a huge fan of the drum and bugle corps, and had an ear for all music that had harmony and touched the soul. He loved to read and was a big collector of books most of his life, but also became a bit of a numismatist later on. Tom will forever be remembered by all for his painful puns and dreadful dad jokes. Aside from his quirky sense of humor, our father will be truly and Abbott-solutely missed. 

Family and friends will be received on Monday, August 14, 2023 from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at the Jackson Lytle and Lewis Life Celebration Center, Springfield. The memorial service will begin at 11:00 a.m., officiated by Pastor Kevin Moehn. Tom will be laid to rest at Dayton National Cemetery immediately following the services. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the DAV or Jamestown Community Music Program in Tom’s honor. Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.jacksonlytle.com.