Thomas Benton Howard

Thomas “Tom” Benton Howard, of Norfolk, MA passed away peacefully from lung disease on Tuesday, October 31, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. Tom’s devotion to family, friends, athletics, and Boston Sports Teams will continue to live on for generations. 

Tom was born in Santa Monica, California on November 22, 1943. He was educated at Arlington Heights High School and TCU, in Fort Worth, Texas. Tom’s lifelong passion for sports was exemplified through his career in the sporting goods industry. He started his own company, Sportech Sales LLC. He worked for Spalding in Chicopee, MA and was Director of Sales and Marketing at Sportcraft and KT Sports for nearly 30 years. Most recently he worked with the MIAA in Franklin, MA.

Tom approached his work with the same commitment and determination that defined his life. He wore many hats, including loving husband, father, and grandfather, and continually inspired those around him. He guided and encouraged hundreds of talented baseball players–from Norfolk Little League and Babe Ruth, to American Legion Baseball and Bay State Games–teaching not just the game, but valuable life lessons. Tom was a man of faith and served as a local CCD teacher at Saint Jude Church.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 49.9 years, Maureen Dwyer Howard. Together, they created a beautiful family, “Team Howard” and set an example of love and commitment while navigating life’s wins and losses. 

Tom was a proud father to Everlasting Maura (April 9, 1975 ~ July 31, 1994), Thomas “Tab” Benton Howard II (Lindsey), Brett, Troy (Stevi), Courtney, Siobhan (Adam), Shannon (Ryan), Mallory (Andrew), and Brandon. Tom's passion for coaching was not limited to the field. His grandchildren Greyson, Cannon, Rory, Chloe, Balen, and Lincoln affectionately referred to him as "Coach." Tom is also survived by family members  Kurt Howard, Allison Howard, Bill Howard, Dana McWhood, and Guy Sarich. 

Tom would want all who knew and loved him to “always have love in your heart and always do your best.” 

Visiting hours will take place on Thursday, November 9, from 4:00 to 7:00 pm. at the Alexander F. Thomas & Sons Funeral Home, located at 45 Common Street in Walpole, MA. The Funeral Mass will be held at Saint Jude Catholic Church in Norfolk, MA on Friday, November 10, at 10:00 am, followed by a burial at Norfolk Cemetery at 24 Seekonk St, Norfolk, MA, 02056.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to:

Maura D. Howard Memorial Fund
OneLocal Bank 160 Main Street Norfolk, MA 02056