Having lived a brilliant and honorable life, Mr. Thomas J. Mozloom, 99, of St. Clair, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, July 28, 2018.
Born in Pottsville on February 9, 1919, "Tommy" was the son of the late John and Teresa (Ferris) Mozloom. He graduated St. Clair High School at the age of 16. As a member of the Greatest Generation and a proud veteran of the United States Army, Tommy served his country honorably during World War II from 1941 through 1946 as a Staff Sargent stationed in the Pacific Theater of Operations in the Philippines. He was responsible for the repair and maintenance of heavy guns and equipment. Sgt. Mozloom received special commendations from the Army and President Truman for going above and beyond his duty by heroically risking his life and saving the lives of his company by removing a live shell from a damaged howitzer while under fire by the enemy.
After the War, Tom worked in construction and as a Cement Finisher and member of the Cement Masons Local 592 in Philadelphia retiring after a lifetime of dedicated service. He took pride in the home he provided for his entire family patiently restoring it from a storefront and pool hall into a beautiful home; the doors were always open to anyone who needed food, shelter, a listening ear, or wonderful advice. Tommy always had time for everyone: relatives, friends, and strangers. His lifetime kindness and quiet generosity often meant food, clothing, and shelter for so many people of all walks of life.
An intense faith and spiritual connection with God guided Tommy's journey. He was a devote member of St. Clare of Assisi Roman Catholic Church (formerly known as St. Mary's) for his entire life. Hailing from humble beginnings, Tom was a simple man who lived a simple life. He was a compassionate man, of gentle heart, and generous to others. He had an unconditional love for his family, caring for his parents until their passing and his sister Norma to this day. He was a man of honor and integrity with a dry sense of humor who loved Arabic music and cigars. He had a beautiful voice; he could sing anything in from the 30's, 40's and 50's, with particularly Bing Crosby or Perry Como! He enjoyed watching old movies and musicals, and going to Atlantic City with his friends every Wednesday. He went out for coffee with his friends every night until they each predeceased him. He was also a Member of the Knights of Columbus.
Tom is survived by his sister Norma Mozloom with whom he resided; his sister Marie Barber of Sewell, NJ; his sister Janet Massoud of Utica, NY; and his brother John "Jack" Mozloom of Hamilton, NJ. He also leaves behind Nieces and Nephews; great Nieces and Nephews, and Great-Great Nieces and Nephews who have all been fortunate to know the kindness and love of "Uncle Tommy". We will miss the sparkle in his smile.
He was predeceased by brothers Vincent and Francis Mozloom; his sisters Anna Joseph and Gloria DeMarkis; Mary Magdalene Mozloom and Madeleine Mozloom; a niece and three great-nephews.
The family is forever grateful to William Murray and Joseph Ferris for the years of compassionate care and they provided Tommy. God Bless you both.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM on Thursday, August 2, 2018, from St. Clare of Assisi Roman Catholic Church, 250 E. Hancock Street, St. Clair, PA with Msgr. William F. Glosser officiating. Friends may call from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM on Wednesday evening and from 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM at the Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Clare of Assisi Memorial Fund at the above address. Burial with military honors will be in the Queen of the Universe Cemetery, Peach Mountain Road, Pottsville, PA.