Thomas A Marcello Obituary in Warren at WJSmith Funeral Home

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Thomas A Marcello

1/27/1945 - 9/19/2016

Obituary For Thomas A Marcello

Barrington --Thomas A. Marcello, 71, of Barrington, died Monday, Sept. 19, 2016. Thomas was born in Fall River, a son of the late Arthur and Rosalie (Moniz) Marcello. He was the husband of Cathleen (Connolly) Marcello for 43 years.

A 1967 graduate of Emerson College with a Bachelor of Arts in Theater, Tom began his teaching career at Warren High School as well as St. Lukes in Barrington, before coming to Swansea Public School in 1976.

He was an educator and teacher in theatre for the Joseph Case High School in Swansea for over 40 years, until his recent retirement.

He introduced thousands of students to the joy of theater and created a community of collaboration where actors and theater tech students thrived.

Beyond the awards, citations and state titles he garnered for Case, Tom Marcello more importantly made his students realize their potential to shine.

He loved Shakespeare, King Arthur, classic musicals, writing original plays, and educational theater. He was a tyrant in rehearsal, supportive during performance, and nurturing of his students talents that they subsequently used the rest of their lives.

In addition to more than 100 plays in Swansea, he has directed for Jay Barry Cultural Arts Center, East Bay Theater Company, Newport Playhouse, Caron Productions, the Little Theatre of Fall River, Bristol Community College Summer Theater, Somerset Recreation, and Fall River Recreation. He was the founder of TAM Repertory in the 1970s beginning an influence that stretched six decades in southeastern New England theatre.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughter Rachel Marcello of Barrington; his son Adam Marcello and his wife Naomi Coleman of Dublin, Ireland; and a brother Arthur Marcello of Barrington. Mr. Marcello was the grandfather of Luke and Ethan Marcello, and uncle to many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of his life will be announced in the coming weeks.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be sent to the Case High Drama Boosters, c/o Joseph Case High School, 70 School Street, Swansea, MA, 02777.

www.wjsmithfh.com

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03/05/2024

Liz smith

Even though it had been awhile since your passing, I still think of you from time to time. I remember you seeing me in the store, encouraging me to get involved in theater. I thank you for protecting me in school from bullies. If I have a chance to be involved in local theater, I will give it a try. In that productions program, I will pay tribute to you and thank you for inspiring and encouraging me. Thank you forever, Liz smith
04/27/2021

Lori Prenda Reilly

To all of the Marcello family, I send my sincere condolences. What a wonderful man, friend and talent. I'm honored to have known Tom since I was a child and learn from him as his student. Cathy - you were the best girlfriend and ultimately wife. Your love for each other only grew stronger over time and shows in your beautiful children Adam and Rachel. I'll cherish all the years spent together - the fun, excitement and learning experience received by such an amazing man. My love goes out to you - you're a strong person and although this is so hard, the memories of such a fabulous journey together, will prevail. All my love.
04/27/2021

Lori Prenda Reilly

I was saddened to hear of Tomâ??s passing. He was a kind and talented man. Tom made a water color Christmas card for my family that still hangs on my wall. It will always remind me of the wonderful memories I have of Tom and my years with TAM. It was so much more than one brief shining moment. My sympathies to his family. Lori Prenda Reilly
04/27/2021

Lori Prenda Reilly

I had the honor and pleasure of working with Tom in one of his best productions of "Godspell" and I will never forget that experience for the rest of my life. I am honored to have worked closely with Tom and I send my deepest sympathies to his family and children. Forever in our hearts. "Joanne" Carol
04/27/2021

Lori Prenda Reilly

Cathy and family, very sorry for your loss. I remember Tom from when I used to spend summers at my Grandmothers (Medeiros) on Vernon Street and hang around with all of you. may he Rest in Peace.
04/27/2021

Lori Prenda Reilly

My daughter, Emma, is home schooled. The one extra curricular activity she was interested in was drama. The only pleasurable part in the entire experience was with Mr. Marcello. After all of the headaches to get her into the drama club, Mr. Marcello made her experience 100% enjoyable. Our family has you in our thoughts and prayers.

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