Thomas P. "Tom" Saccone, 86, of Florida died peacefully October 14, at home surrounded by loved ones and his beloved paintings, which he considered an extension of himself. He was born December 20, 1930, and was an accomplished artist. He was the beloved life partner of Olga de la Victoria for 30 years.

Mr Saccone served in the Air Force from 1951 to 1955. The benefits of service allowed him to attend college, and he went on to earn advanced degrees in art education and library science. He started his 37-year career as an art teacher and retired from the Newtown Board of Education as a school librarian.

He retired to West Palm Beach, Fla., in 1992, and immensely enjoyed and celebrated the quality of life it afforded him: time to paint, his "passion"; daily visits to the beach; being bronzed from the sun; attending art fairs; traveling; and many fun activities with Olga and friends.

Mr Saccone leaves a legacy of children, grandchildren, and his creative presence in his paintings and illustrated poetry books. He will affectionately be remembered for his frequently repeated jokes and stories. When his name is mentioned it brings smiles to family and friends because of his wit and humor.

His partner, Olga de la Victoria of Florida; his children (from a previous marriage) and their spouses, Paul and Daniele Saccone of Michigan, James and Monica Saccone of Minneapolis, and John and Kristine Saccone of Trumbull; his grandchildren, Celine, Alanna, Andre, Tia, Cooper, and Evan, all of whom will lovingly remember "Grandpa Bud" and their fun visits to see him in Florida; his siblings, Rose O'Donnell, Paulette Corner, and Peter Saccone and wife Connie; his sister-in-law Sylvia Saccone, the widow of Louis; as well as several nieces and nephews survive him.

He was the devoted son of the late Peter and Mary Feola Saccone; beloved father to his late son Matthew Saccone; and dear brother to the late Louis J. Saccone.

Family and friends loved Mr Saccone dearly and will remember the many laughs and good times shared with him over the years and will miss him.

There will be no viewing hours.

Graveside services, including military honors and interment, will take place at noon on Friday, November 10, at Huntington Lawn Cemetery, 24 Lane Street, Shelton, under the direction of James T. Toohey & Son Funeral Home, Shelton.