Thomas J. Modica, Sr., of Beaumont, passed away on April 10, 2013, and is now in God's care. Born on February 12, 1915, in Onalaska, Texas, he was preceded in death by his wife of almost fifty-four years, Jean; his parents, Anthonette and John Baptiste Modica; one sister, Rose Stassi; and a grandson, Mark Edward Hawkins.

Survivors include his brother, Anthony J. Modica; son, Thomas J. Modica, Jr. and his wife, Symberly; four daughters, Rita Guidry, Rose Scott, Jeanie Modica, and Elissia Taylor and her husband, John. Surviving grandchildren include Craig Guidry and his fiancée, Ashley Graves; Blaine Guidry; Lindsay Guidry Stryker and her husband, Mark; Nicole Emerson and her husband, Mark; Brooke Smith and her husband, Taylor; Merris Taylor; Maxwell Taylor; Thomas J. Modica III; and Reed Modica; twelve great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren also survive him; along with many cousins in Beaumont; and his beloved nieces; nephews; and great-nieces; and great-nephews in Sacramento, California.

Growing up in Beaumont, Tommy attended Saint Anthony Catholic School and Beaumont High School. He joined the United States Army in World War II, during which he met and married the love of his life, Jean Golden on February 4, 1944. After serving for four years, he returned to Beaumont to start his civilian life with Jean. He worked in Beaumont until his retirement at age sixty-five.

Those who knew Tommy would say he worked diligently all his life until retirement, after which he and Jean thoroughly enjoyed their time together with each other and with their family. Papaw was so easy to be around with his humorous stories, kind heart, generosity, and love for his family until the end.

A gathering of Mr. Modica's family and friends will begin at 3:00 p.m., with a Rosary recited at 5:00 p.m., Sunday, April 14, 2013, at Broussard's, 2000 McFaddin Avenue, Beaumont. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., Monday, April 15, 2013, at St. Anne Catholic Church, 2715 Calder Avenue, Beaumont, with interment to follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Beaumont. A reception will follow his interment for family and friends at St. Anne parish hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his honor may be made to American Cancer Society, 755 South 11th Street, Suite 212, Beaumont, Texas 77701.