Thomas Orville Love

Thomas Orville Love, age 85 of Naugatuck, entered into rest on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at his home. He was the devoted husband of Linda (Smith) Love with whom he had celebrated 50 years of marriage last September. Tom was born on September 21, 1940 in Georgetown, Texas, son of the late Orville and Thrace (Howell) Love. He was a Texas resident until he left to serve his country with honor and pride in the US Navy.

Tom was stationed in Hawaii, San Francisco, and eventually Connecticut during his years of service. After a three-year deployment aboard a nuclear submarine to Scotland, he returned to Connecticut and worked for many years as an Independent Distributor Partner for Pepperidge Farm before working for many years for USPS as a Postal Clerk in Naugatuck

Tom’s love of the water became something his entire family shared. He, Linda, and their children created many cherished memories boating together, where Tom always seemed most at peace — finding joy, freedom, and calm on the water.

Together, Tom and Linda traveled extensively throughout Europe, the Caribbean, and across the United States, especially enjoying visits to National Parks and reunions with the veterans Tom had served alongside. Texas was always a favorite destination, where many close friends and family lived.

At home, Tom was a natural tinkerer who could fix just about anything. He had a warm heart, a gentle sense of humor, and a kindness and generosity that touched everyone around him. More than anything, Tom treasured spending time with his family, creating a lifetime of memories filled with laughter, adventure, and love.

In addition to his wife, Linda of Naugatuck, Tom is survived by his beloved children, Mark Love and Abby Cervone, and her husband, Brian; and his cherished grandsons, Joseph and Maxwell Cervone, all of Naugatuck. He also leaves many loving family members in Texas. He was predeceased by his sister, Bernice Lyons.

Friends are invited to greet Tom’s family at the Buckmiller Ford Mengacci Funeral Home, 82 Fairview Ave., Naugatuck, CT 06770 on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 from 5PM until 7PM. On Wednesday, May 27, 2026 his funeral procession will leave the funeral home at 9:15AM for a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10AM in St, Francis of Assisi Church, 318 Church Street, Naugatuck. Burial will follow at St. Augustine Cemetery, 23 Bissell Place, Seymour. In lieu of flowers the family encourages friends and loved ones to honor his memory by spending time with one another and enjoying the simple moments he treasured most. To leave online condolences for his family, please visit www.fordfh.com