The sudden death of 16-year-old Thomas “Tommy” Edward Lowell IV has left the Connecticut community in deep shock and grief. Tommy, a beloved son, friend, and classmate, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, December 9, leaving family and friends struggling to cope with the unimaginable loss.
Who Was Tommy Lowell?
Tommy, who lived in East Windsor and Bristol before settling in Avon, was a junior in high school and known for his joyful spirit and unique sense of humor. His family described him as someone who brought light to every room he entered. Whether it was sharing silly jokes, pulling harmless pranks, or singing in the school choir, Tommy had a gift for spreading happiness to those around him.
He had a deep passion for studying Latin and thrived among a close group of friends who admired his enthusiasm for learning. His love for his cats, Milo and Ollie, reflected his kind and caring nature. In her grief, Tommy’s mother, Ericka Lowell, shared her heartbreak on Facebook, saying, “Words cannot describe what we’re feeling.”
Support for the Grieving Family
In response to the unexpected tragedy, a family friend, Shalousie Rising, started a GoFundMe campaign to help ease the burden of funeral expenses. “This is so incredibly hard for me to write,” Rising said. “As it was so unexpected to lose such a young, bright light, I am asking for help to ease their funeral expenses.”
The community’s support has been overwhelming, with donations surpassing $13,400—well above the initial goal of $5,500. The generosity of those who knew Tommy, as well as those moved by his story, speaks volumes about his impact on others.
Celebrating Tommy’s Life
Tommy’s funeral services are scheduled for Monday, December 16, at Vincent Funeral Home, located at 120 Albany Turnpike in Canton. The visitation will begin at 4 p.m., followed by a celebration of his life at 5 p.m. Friends, family, and community members will gather to honor the memory of a young life taken too soon.
A Lasting Legacy
Tommy is survived by his parents, Ericka and Tom Lowell, as well as his grandparents, Thomas and Francine Lowell of Broad Brook and Victoria and Jacquelyn Liu of Avon and Southington. He also leaves behind loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends who cherished him deeply.
While Tommy’s death is a devastating loss, the love and memories he shared with those around him will endure. In a world where he brought so much joy, his absence leaves an irreplaceable void, but his light will continue to shine in the hearts of those who knew him.