Walter "Tom" Southworth

Walter “Tom” Southworth 84, of Bonita Springs and a former resident of Syracuse, NY died on June 17, 2024 after an extended illness. Tom had been a resident of Bonita Springs since 2001 having moved from Syracuse. He was born on June 15, 1940, in Erie, Pennsylvania a son of the late Walter T. and Leona (née Knepper) Southworth. He was a graduate of Cathedral Prep School in Erie, PA where he also played football as their center and earned All-City and All-State honors. Tom then attended and graduated from Gannon College where he earned his Bachelor’s degree. In 1963, Tom joined the U.S. Army and in 1964 he was appointed to the USAR as a 2nd Lieutenant where he spent the next 24 years. He retired from the military as a Major. Tom began his career with the Travelers Insurance Company in Erie, PA. He also worked for them in Franklin, PA, again in Erie, PA, Albany, NY, and Syracuse, NY. He then went to work at RMSCO, Inc. where he established a medical claims department. He retired in 2001 as the Medical Claims Manager. Tom had a successful career in real estate in Southwest Florida where he helped many clients and families find their forever home. He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church where he served as a Eucharistic minister, the Bonita Springs Elks Lodge, and the Naples Ballroom Dancers. Tom was a special individual always willing to help anyone. Tom is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Jane R. Southworth (nee Dronko) of Bonita Springs, FL; daughter, Elizabeth Ann Gleason, of Syracuse, NY, son, Quan Ngo and his wife, Ty of Raleigh, NC and 4 grandchildren, Shawn Thomas Gleason, Sabrina Ann Gleason, Cynthia Ngo, and Sara Ngo. He is also survived by his sister, Merle Donatucci, his brother-in-law, Peter Donatucci of Bradenton, FL, and many nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, at 10:00 AM at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. A reception for family and friends will follow the Mass in the Rome room at St. John. Additional services and burial will be held in Erie, PA at a date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the American Heart Association or The Kidney Foundation. To sign his guest register or to leave online condolences please visit www.ShikanyFuneralHome.com. Arrangements are being handled by Shikany’s Bonita Funeral Home Family Owned and Operated Since 1978.

Walter "Tom" Southworth

June 15, 1940 - June 17, 2024