Brother Thomas Papa

Thomas A. Papa, 77, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Lois (Giorgi) Papa, with whom he built a life filled with love, commitment, and family. Lois and Tom were high school sweethearts at Mount Pleasant High School.

Born in Providence, Tom was the son of the late Rocco and Pearl (Renner) Papa. He earned a degree in electrical technology from the New England Technical Institute and was a proud member of IBEW Local 99. He was also owner and operator of LaSalle Hardware and worked for Stanley Bostitch for many years. A dedicated tradesman, Tom served his country honorably in the Army National Guard for six years during the Vietnam era. He was a talented athlete and loved all sports.

Tom was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother—known for his steady presence, warmth, and quiet strength. He leaves behind his children, Derrick Papa and his wife Nicole, and Jacqueline Bordalo and her husband David; his cherished grandchildren, Rocco, Nova, and Luca Papa, and Anthony Bordalo; and his brothers, Nicola Papa and Stephen Papa and his wife Anna; also, sister in law Ann Marie Gateman and husband Marty, John Giorgi and his wife Lori, and Joseph Giorgi and his wife Kathie. He was the uncle of many nieces and nephews whom he dearly loved. His close group of friends meant the world to him and he considered them family.

Many thanks to the entire staff at Steere House and the Hospice team. Their knowledge and support were priceless.

Family and friends are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial which will be celebrated on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Philip Church, 622 Putnam Pike, Greenville. Military honors will follow the service. In keeping with Tom’s wishes, visitation is respectfully omitted, and burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation at https://t2t.org in honor of Tom’s memory and service.