Thomas F. Durkin

Mr. Thomas F. Durkin, of Weston, died Monday, January 19, 2026 at Lincoln Hospice House after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was 86.

Tom was born in Waltham on March 5, 1939, a son of the late Francis “Gus” and Natalie (Creonte) Durkin. He grew up in Waltham, attended St. Mary’s High School, then transferred to Waltham High School so he could play hockey, graduating in 1957.

After high school, Tom served honorably in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Roosevelt aircraft carrier, which made multiple tours in the Mediterranean. He also took part in a historic moment when the ship recovered Gus Grissom after his Mercury spaceflight. As a Petty Officer, working in the carpentry shop on board, he learned many skills that he carried forward.

Upon returning home, he went to school to study the electrical trade. He became a master electrician and started Durkin Electric Co. Inc., running it for many years before passing it to his son, Tom Jr.

In 1962, Tom married Eleanor Frasca in Our Lady Comforter of the Afflicted Church in Waltham. They began their life in Waltham before moving to Weston in 1970, where they raised their three boys and stayed ever since.

Tom loved sports from a young age, excelling in hockey and baseball. In Weston, he became a beloved Little League coach, especially during the years he coached each of his sons. He had a real gift for connecting with kids, teaching them the game while building their confidence. He continued playing hockey in adult leagues for years and was a strong golfer who never turned down a round on the links.

He and Eleanor enjoyed traveling, cruises and trips around the world, but they also found happiness in simple things like date nights out to dinner, time at home, and family gatherings. Along with being a great teacher, Tom was fun-loving with a sharp sense of humor and a warm heart that made everyone feel welcome.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Fred Durkin.

Tom leaves his beloved wife, Eleanor (Frasca) Durkin; his children, Tom Durkin Jr. of Waltham, Brian Durkin (Patricia) of Hanover, and Kevin Durkin (Michelle) of Wellesley; his grandchildren, Erin, Owen, Liam, Riley, and Peyton Durkin; his siblings, Walter Durkin of Gloucester and Natalie Provost of Plymouth; and many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends will honor and remember Tom’s life by gathering for an Evening Wake from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, January 27th at Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham, and again at 9 a.m. on Wednesday morning before leaving in procession to St. Mary’s Church, 133 School Street, Waltham, where his Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Waltham.