Thomas Raymond Brophy III

Thomas "Tom" Raymond Brophy III, 71, passed away surrounded by family on December 19, 2019, after a short illness. Tom was born on June 23, 1948 in Providence, Rhode Island. His family relocated to the Fort Lauderdale, FL area in the 1950's and he graduated from Stranahan High School in 1965. He honorably served his country in the United States Air Force and was a veteran of the Vietnam War. After graduating from the University of Florida, he made his home in Gainesville and worked for the Veterans Administration performing research and contributing to many publications. He retired from the United States Postal Service after serving as a Supervisor for many years. In retirement, he made his home in the Clearwater area and enjoyed traveling, politics and spending time with his children and grandchildren. What’s not to love about a guy who loved his children and grandchildren - almost as much as he loved the Florida Gators, cold Bud Light, Fox News, classic rock, golden oldies, raw oysters, pickles and John Wayne. He is survived by his loving partner of 12 years, Diana Colletti, his children, Kellie (Roy) Whann, Erin (Brandon) Adams, Ian (Jennifer) Brophy and Shauna (Tony) Macarages. Eleven grandchildren, Kendall, Hunter and Kyle Whann; Shelby and Maleah Adams; Aidan and Liam Brophy; Madison, Troy, Luke and Austin Macarages. He is also survived by his twin siblings, Dennis (Christine) Brophy and Donna (James) Fresquez and his nieces and nephews. “May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face; the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, may the Lord hold you in the palm of his hand.” Services will be announced at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758517 Topeka, KS 66675, www.woundedwarriorproject.org.