Thomas 'Tommy' Colucci, adored by all
Thomas "Tommy" Francesco Colucci, our beloved little 8-year-old dude, of Rehoboth Beach, ran into the arms of Jesus Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2013.
Tommy, a tough Irish fighter, lived through nine surgeries, all but two performed by the compassionate doctors at A.I. Dupont, a place where Tommy made countless friends - friends like Jewel and Miss Dee, Bob Keller and Angie Stump. It was there that Tommy met the Palliative Care team that, along with Delaware Hospice, helped to bring him home.
He inspired countless therapists, teachers and staff at Howard T. Ennis with his quiet way. He was loved by all who knew him, especially the members of Team Tommy, led by Dr. Judy Gorra. He was lovingly cared for by all his nurses, Maebeth, Amber, Barbara, Ashley, and Carla. Special F.O.T.’s (Friends of Tommy) include Travis, Davey, Tom P. and Andy.
If it is true that children choose their families, then we are honored that Tommy chose us. He was adored by his parents, Maura and Tom, and cherished by his sister Patricia, and his two brothers, John and Paul.
He was preceded in death by Patricia and Anthony Colucci, and Uncle Sean Dolan.
He is survived by grandparents Martin and Patricia Dolan; and loving godparents Nancy and Mark Bsales. His is the beloved nephew of aunts and uncles, including Martin and Beth Dolan of Memphis, Tenn., Sheila and Matthew Manner of Huntington, N.Y., Erin and Peter Hanrahan of Huntington, Michael and MaryAnn Colucci of Naperville, Ill., John and Sallie Colucci of Pelham Manor, N.Y., Marybeth Colucci of Forest Hills, N.Y., and Jean and Jack Kiley of Garden City, N.Y. He was also loved dearly by all of his cousins both near and far. Though he did not speak one word, he has and will continue to touch the lives of countless people.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Saturday Feb. 16, at St. Edmond Catholic Church, 409 King Charles Ave., Rehoboth Beach.
Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 14, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Atkins-Lodge Chapel, 16961 Kings Highway, Lewes, and again from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m., Friday, Feb. 15. Burial will be private.
Donations in honor of Tommy can be made to the Thomas P. Ferry Program for Palliative Care, Shands House, c/o A.I. Dupont Hospital for Children, 1600 Rockland Road, Wilmington DE 19807.
