Thomas Clare

Thomas Clare, affectionately known as 'Tommy,' was born in East Orange, New Jersey on February 23, 1933. He was the son of the late Thomas Clare and the late Blanche Clare-Johnson, and step-son of the late Frank Johnson (Pop). He was a longtime resident of New Haven and West Haven, CT. Tommy was educated in the New Haven Public School System. He was a graduate of Wilbur Cross High School. Tommy entered the United States Air Force on October 22, 1951 and received and Honorable Discharge on September 22, 1955. While in the U.S. Air Force Tommy was a member of the Armed Services Basketball Team. This allowed him to travel to many European Countries. Upon returning to the United States Tommy worked for GEO and was the owner and proprietor of 'Charlie's Bar and Grill' located on Shelton Avenue. Later in life Tommy worked in construction until his retirement. Tommy leaves to cherish his memory daughter, Kim Clare-Pullen (Keith), granddaughter, Ferris Clare, two sisters, Muriel Curry (George) and Gail Hawley. He was predeceased by sisters, Jacqueline Clare, Ruth Johnson, Carolyn Gill and brother, Ronald Johnson. He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces, great-great-nephews, three God-Children, and a host of loving relatives and friends. Funeral service Tues., Feb. 12 at 11 a.m. at BEECHER & BENNETT-TAYLOR FUNERAL HOME, 410 Campbell Ave. at Court St., West Haven. Friends may call Tues. from 10 - 11 a.m. Burial with military honors in Beaverdale Memorial Park.