Thomas Brian Heslin

Thomas Brian Heslin, fondly known as "Snake”, left this earthly life following a brief illness on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, surrounded by his family. 

Born in New Britain on January 19, 1954, son of the late Raymond and Marilyn (Bagley) Heslin, Tom was part of a close-knit family of six siblings, aunts, uncles and cousins raised in Plainville, which laid the foundation for the strong family values he carried throughout his life. He had a lifelong love for sports, and was a proud graduate of Plainville High School, where he excelled in football and track, followed by many years of playing in the Plainville Softball League.  A fixture in local manufacturing his hard work ethic was evident in everything he did and was a testament to his character.   Tommy’s passion for sports extended into auto racing, spending many weekends at the tracks with the Christopher brothers, and later, as a loyal and integral member of the Ferguson Motorsports Racing Team.  He was a familiar face at the Waterford Speedbowl every Saturday night and enjoyed every minute of it.    Tommy supported his dear friend Niko Koutouvides with pride, rarely missing a game as his football career transpired from his Purdue College days through the NFL.  A die-hard Celtics fan, he made sure to spread his love of the game to everyone around him.  Beyond sports, Tommy was a kind-hearted soul and a great listener with a unique ability to engage in deep conversations and offer advice that came straight from his heart. His family meant the world to him, and he took deep pride in being a devoted father and a proud Papa to his adored grandchildren and extended family.  His circle of friends was wide, and his warm spirit touched the lives of many.  Though he will be missed greatly, his life will be remembered not through mourning, but by celebrating the love, joyous moments and infectious laughter that he brought into our lives, just as Tommy would want it.

Tommy is survived by his son, Thomas, his wife Rachel and their children Roen and Rex; his siblings, Raymond Heslin and his wife Nancy, Gary Heslin, Bob Heslin, Deborah Needham and Maureen Heslin and her partner Lou DeCrosta, his former wife and friend, Robin (Gavin), his nieces and nephew, Mary, Lauren, Dustin, Tessa, Heather and Olivia; and countless friends. He was predeceased by his brother Joseph Heslin.

In lieu of flowers, Tommy may be remembered with contributions to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org

Family and friends may gather on Thursday March 20, 2025 from 4-7 p.m. at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad St, Plainville.  A celebration of life will be held at the funeral home on Friday March 21, 2025 at 11 a.m. with a reception to immediately follow.  Burial will be held privately at the convenience of the family.  For online expressions of sympathy, please visit www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com

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