Thomas F. Houle

Thomas F. Houle,94, of Riverside, known affectionately as Tom, peacefully passed away on November 12, 2023, at Steere House in Providence, RI. Born on October 10, 1929, in Lynn, Massachusetts, Tom was a loving and selfless man, always ready to lend a hand and share his heart with those around him.

Tom was the devoted husband of the late Pearl (Sanville) Houle, and the cherished son of the late Wilfred H. and Lucy M. (LeBlanc) Houle. His love and dedication to his family were evident in every aspect of his life. Tom was the proud father of Wayne Houle and his wife, LuAnn, of West Warwick; Richard Houle and his wife, Diana, of Pawtucket; Thomas A. Houle and his wife, Beth, of Mobile, Alabama; and Carolyn Lopes and the late Paul Lopes of Riverside. His love extended to his siblings, Bernard Houle of Central Falls and Virginia Silk of San Jose, California. He was predeceased by his brothers, Robert Houle and Wilfred H. Houle Jr.

Tom was blessed with a large and loving family. He was the doting grandfather to Allison, Scott, Amie, Steven, Jean-Luc, Ian, and Tim. His joy was multiplied as he became the great-grandfather to Austin, Marissa, Dominic, Zaden, Myles, Maxwell, and Melanie. Each of them held a special place in his heart, and he in theirs.

Tom's dedication and hard work were reflected in his professional life. He was a textile foreman for the Valley Throwing Manufacturing, where they produced twisted yarn products. His commitment to his work was evident in the many years he devoted to the company.

Beyond his family and professional life, Tom had a rich array of interests. Tom was a parishioner of St. Margaret's Church, for the last five years, he has lived in Riverside at Anchor Bay Assisted Living , previously living in Rumford. He had a deep love for music and was an accomplished piano player. His passion for music extended to his involvement with the Gais Chanteur Singers, where he served as club president for a year. Tom also had a knack for fixing things, particularly player pianos. This skill was a testament to his handy nature and his ability to bring joy to others through his talents. Tom's interests also extended to the outdoors. He enjoyed yard work and landscaping, creating beautiful spaces for his family and friends to enjoy.

Tom was also a member of a radio-controlled airplane club, where he was able to combine his love for fixing things with his love for the outdoors. His hobbies were a reflection of his character – industrious, dedicated, and always ready to learn something new.

In every aspect of his life, Tom exemplified the qualities of a loving, handy, and selfless individual. He was a beacon of strength and love for his family, a dedicated and respected worker, and an individual who enriched the lives of those around him through his many talents and interests. His memory and the impact he made on those around him will continue to live on.

Tom's life was a testament to the power of love, hard work, and the joy that can be found in every moment. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege to know him. His legacy will continue to be celebrated and remembered with love and gratitude.

His funeral home service will held on Thursday, November 16,2023 at 12:00pm in the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, 901 Broadway, East Providence. Burial will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 550 Wampanoag Trail, East Providence. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Calling hours are Thursday morning from 10:30am – 12:00pm at the funeral home. Please donate to a charity of your choice, in his memory. www.rebellofuneralhome.com.