Obituary: Thomas B. Armitage, Former Plainville Deputy Fire Chief

(From Sperry & McHoul Funeral Home)

Thomas B. Armitage, 82, formerly of Bugbee Street, died peacefully on Wednesday, Jan. 30, 2013, in Norwood Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of the late Joan (Babbitt) Armitage for almost 50 years and loving companion of Pauline Sylvia for nearly 13 years.

Born Jan. 1, 1931 in North Attleboro, he was the son of the late Thomas and Ida (Peary) Armitage.

Tom was a member of the Plainville Fire Department for more than 20 years, achieving the rank of deputy chief. During his early years on the department, he helped to obtain the first town ambulance.

He devoted a lot of time to the youth of Plainville throughout his life, serving on the park commission and was instrumental in the development and construction of the town pool and bathhouse. He was also involved in starting the first youth center in Plainville.

Tom supported his family by working in the optical manufacturing industry for many years.

He had a passion for cribbage, belonging to many local clubs and participating in many tournaments.

He was an active member of the Plainville Senior Center where he enjoyed playing cribbage and pool, and was an avid Vespa scooter enthusiast. He loved joining his friends for rides around town. He was a longtime member of the Plainville United Methodist Church.

He is survived by four children and their spouses: Linda and her husband Al Coutinho of Rehoboth; Thomas and his wife Laura Armitage of Tenants Harbor, Maine; Brian and his wife Jackie Armitage of South Attleboro; and Lisa and her husband Ken Gill of South Attleboro; seven grandchildren: Tami Coutinho, Greggory Armitage, Dustin Armitage, Brian Armitage, Jr., Kirstie Armitage, Jacob Gill and Sarah Gill; a step-grandson Ian Cook; four great-grandchildren: Samantha Coutinho, Jacob Coutinho, Jeffrey Desousa and Ryder Armitage; and a sister Beverly Thornley of Cumberland. He was the loving grandfather of the late Albert Coutinho.

He was predeceased by his brother, Robert Armitage, and sisters, Violet Havey, Elizabeth Cooper and Carol Armstrong.

A celebration of his life will be announced at a later date.

Arrangements provided by Sperry & McHoul Funeral Home, 15 Grove St., North Attleboro.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Thomas’ name may be made to the Plainville Senior Center, 9 School Street, Plainville, MA 02762.