Seekonk - Thomas L. Sladen, III, 68, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, after a courageous battle with Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). He was the beloved husband of Barbara (McGrane) Sladen for forty-three beautiful years. Born in Providence on February 8, 1956, Thomas was the eldest son of the late Thomas “Leo”, Jr. and Jane (Rowse) Sladen.
In addition to his devoted wife, he leaves behind his cherished children: Robert Sladen and his wife Daniella of Florida, and Elizabeth Dubuc and her husband Jeffrey of Attleboro. He was the proud grandfather of Noah and Penelope Sladen, as well as Benjamin and Emma Dubuc, with whom he treasured every moment. Thomas also leaves behind his brother and sidekick from the start, Paul Sladen and his wife, Catherine, of East Providence, and his brother Michael Sladen of Pawtucket, along with his brother-in-law Claus Baier of Pawtucket. He is survived by his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, James and Elizabeth Dube of Pawtucket, whom he cherished as his own brother and sister. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and countless friends who became like family, especially Tim and Debby Greenwood and Tom McCoy. Thomas was predeceased by his sister, Deborah Baier.
Thomas graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a degree in mechanical engineering. He worked for thirty-one years at the former Brown and Sharpe, later known as Hexagon Metrology, before retiring in November of 2020. After retirement, he collaborated with his son and daughter-in-law to help launch their company, Zulu Pods, channeling his lifelong love of building and fixing things into a new chapter of innovation.
Thomas had a deep love for fishing, making annual trips with his boys despite often returning empty-handed. He fulfilled a long-held dream of owning a boat, earning the nickname "Captain Tom," and spent weekends on the water with friends and family. Gardening was another passion, and his famous tomatoes were eagerly awaited by family and friends each year.
His heart was forever tied to his family’s home in Dennisport, Cape Cod, where he grew up and later created treasured memories with his wife, children, grandchildren, and the extended “Raycroft Beach” family. Thursday nights at Chelo's with friends of over fifty years became a cherished tradition, one he upheld even in his final weeks.
Above all, Thomas's greatest joy was his family. His grandchildren were his "sidekicks," and together they shared endless adventures of climbing playgrounds, playing hide-and-seek, gardening, riding ocean waves, learning to ride bikes, and indulging in countless ice cream dates. These precious memories will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
Despite his diagnosis two and a half years ago, Thomas faced FTD with unparalleled strength, grace, and resilience. Even after losing his language skills early in his journey, he maintained his positive attitude, warm smile, and steadfast devotion to his loved ones. His bravery was a source of strength for his family, who are deeply grateful to the extended community of friends and caregivers who supported them throughout this time.
Thomas's legacy will endure in the love he shared, the memories he created, and the lives he touched. He will forever be remembered in the sands of the Cape, the sprinkles on an ice cream cone, and the seeds of every tomato grown in his honor.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the HopeHealth Hospice team, particularly his CNA Kelly and Nurse Carolynn, whose compassionate care brought comfort to Thomas and his family in his final days.
His funeral was held on Monday, December 16th at 11:00 a.m. in WILLIAM W. TRIPP Funeral Home, 1008 Newport Ave., Pawtucket, followed by interment at St. Francis Cemetery, Pawtucket. Calling hours were held on Sunday, December 15th from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to HopeHealth Hospice & Palliative Care, 1085 N. Main St., Providence, RI 02904 would be appreciated. Online condolences and photo sharing welcomed at www.trippfuneralhome.com
