Thomas (Tom) Frank Mello

Thomas (Tom) Frank Mello, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed away on May 9, 2025. Born on August 18, 1937, in Erie, Pennsylvania, Tom lived a life filled with love, adventure, and dedication to his family and country.

After graduating from Strong Vincent High School in Erie in 1955, Tom enlisted in the Army's 101st Airborne Division, where he served with honor for two years in Germany. Following his military service, Tom pursued a welding career at Zurn Industries and raised a family in Girard with his wife, Jean Bissell. Tom and Jean moved to Pendergrass, Georgia, in 1995.

Tom’s passion for life was embodied in his deep love for family, fishing, sports, and a good Varsity chili dog. Tom's glass was always half full, and he lifted others with his optimism and indomitable spirit. Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit will live on in the memories and hearts of those he touched.

Tom is survived by his devoted wife, Jean, and his loving sister, Maryann Chorney. He is also survived by his children, Denise Agnello (Ogden, UT), Tim (Houston, TX), Leotina Foley (Cleveland, OH), Jeff (Dallas, TX), and Jeremy (Pendergrass, GA); his fourteen grandchildren; and numerous great- and great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his sons, Bobby Mello and Thomas Mello Jr., as well as his parents, Frank Mello and Leatrice Sorze.

A Celebration of Life Service to honor Tom will be held at the Jackson County Senior Citizen's Center, 151 Stan Evans Drive, Jefferson, GA 30549, on Friday, May 16, 2025, at11:00 AM with his son, Mr. Timothy Mello officiating. A second celebration will take place at Raccoon Park in Springfield, Pennsylvania this summer.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Albert Gordon Post 56 American Legion, P.O.Box 861, Jefferson, Georgia  30549.

Evans Funeral Home, Inc., 1350 Winder Highway, Jefferson, Georgia.  706-367-5467      

Online condolences at www.evansfuneralhomeinc.com