Col. Thomas B. Sears, U.S.A.F. (Ret.) passed away in his sleep on June 19, 2018. He was born on March 27, 1933 in Worcester, MA.

Tom was the son of the late Thomas M. Sears and Mildred H. Sears. He graduated from Classical High School in Worcester, MA and was known as Bruce to his friends. His first job was as a caddy at Tatnuck Country Club, where he often carried 3-4 bags at a time while sharing his love of golf. He continued his education by earning an Associate’s degree in science from Becker Junior College in 1953 and his M.B.A. from Syracuse University in 1965.

Tom married the love of his life, June F. Sears on October 9, 1954. They had three children Karen L. Carnes of Tampa, FL, Glenn T. Sears of Gainesville, GA, and David A. Sears of Mechanicsville, VA. They have four grandchildren Melanie St. Amant, Colin Oliver, Heather Tolaigain and Sydney Sears. Their marriage and military life led to family and friends throughout the country.

Col. Sears had a thirty year career in the United States Air Force. He served in both the Korean War and the Vietnam War as a Navigator/Bombardier on the B-47 and the EB-66. He was posted throughout the country and around the world from Tokyo, Japan to Washington, D.C. serving strategic air command, N.O.R.A.D. and even the Pentagon. He earned many medals including: The Air Force Commendation Medal for meritorious service to the Fifth Air Force from 1965-1968, The Air Medal for meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight from 1969-1970, The Distinguished Flying Cross in 1970, The Joint Service Commendation Medal in 1975, The Legion of Merit in 1976 and again in 1983 as well as The Defense Meritorious Service Medal in 1979.

After retirement, Col. Sears rose to Vice President at Information Spectrum in Washington, D.C. Subsequently, he retired from the workforce and moved with his wife to Bedford, N.H. where they became members of Bedford Presbyterian Church.

Arrangements: His Visitation will be held in the Phaneuf Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 243 Hanover St., Manchester, on Friday, June 22, from 8:30 to 10:15A.M. The Funeral Service will be held at Bedford Presbyterian Church, 4 Church Rd., Bedford, on Friday, June 22 at 11:00A.M. The Graveside Service with Military Honors to follow at Worcester County Memorial Park, 217 Richards Ave., Paxton, MA. Memorial luncheon will be announced at the services. In lieu of flowers, you can make a donation to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the charity of your choice.