Thomas Cozzone, 98, of West Long Branch, died peacefully on Monday, November 20, 2017. Affectionately known as “Sonny,” Tom was born and raised in Newark and lived for many years in South Orange before moving to the Jersey Shore. An expert machinist, he was secretary/treasurer of Cozzone Manufacturing Co., a family business that made parts for weaponry during World War II. In 1985, he founded Tom-ette Manufacturing in Long Branch, which he ran as president until his retirement.
Tom was a graduate of West Side High School and studied at Newark College of Engineering. He was a member of Newark Unico for many years, as well as the Downtown Club and the Columbian Foundation, also in Newark. Tom spent many winters in Boca Raton, Florida, and was a member of the Allenhurst Beach Club for 60 years.
Tom was a devoted husband and father who relished the simple pleasures of being with family and friends. He enjoyed a good card game, a day at the beach, and above all watching his beloved Yankees. All who knew him loved him for his gentle spirit, his warm smile, and his eternal good nature. He was a gentleman in the truest sense of the word.
He was predeceased by his parents, John and Margaret Cozzone; his brother, Anthony Cozzone; and his sisters, Phylene Gull and Genevieve Cozzone. He is survived by his loving wife of 71 years, Jeanette; his son, Dr. John Cozzone, of Franklin Lakes; and his daughter and son-in-law, Camille and Clyde (Skip) Rankin, of New York City. The family is grateful for the loving care he received from Norma Whiskey and Irma Cedeno.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit from 2-4 and 7-9 pm Friday at the Fiore Funeral Home, 236 Monmouth Road, Oakhurst. Funeral 10:00 am Saturday from the funeral home followed by an 11:00 am Funeral Mass at St. Dorothea’s Church, Eatontown. Donations may be made to the American Heart Association or St. Dorothea’s Church. For condolences, please visit www.fiorefuneralhomes.com.