Thomas S. Popovich 1933-2025
POLAND — Thomas S. Popovich, 92, passed away peacefully, Sunday morning, Feb. 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Tom was born Jan. 28, 1933, to Phillip and Anna Kvarta Popovich. He was proud to live his entire life in the Youngstown area, graduating from Ursuline High School, then serving in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War.
Tom worked at Republic Steel, then earned his bachelor’s degree from YSU and master’s from Westminster College, going on to pursue a vibrant career in education. He taught and served as an administrator at several Youngstown City Schools over the course of 30 years.
Tom had a child’s heart and was beloved by students, teachers, staff and parents!
After retiring, Tom worked part time for 20 years at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, where he knew and comforted many.
Tom’s greatest joys were his family, his faith, gardening and entertaining his Nancy as they traveled to Notre Dame games and wineries.
Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife of 67 years, Nancy A. Hackett Popovich; his five children, Mary Ann (Doug) Bennett, Tom (Nancy) Popovich, Mic (Kelly) Popovich, Cathy DeGenova (Steve Gilmore) and Rosemary (Tim) Shanahan; as well as 14 grandchildren, Lisa, Katie, John, Allison, Michael, Michelle, Stephanie, Daniel, Lauren, Brian, Maggie, Luke, Adriana and Tommy; eight great-grandchildren; and many loving nieces, nephews, neighbors and friends.
Besides his parents, Tom was preceded in death by two infant children, Thomas and Amy, his siblings, Joe, Phil, Frank, Charles, Dorothy and George; and three nephews.
Tom’s family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Art Duran and Hospice professionals, Betsy and Laurie, for their selfless care.
Friends and family may join in celebrating Tom during calling hours 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025, at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, 2726 Center Road (Route 224), Poland, and a prayer service 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025, at the funeral home, prior to his funeral Mass at 10 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church.
A committal service with military honors will begin at 1 p.m. at Poland Riverside Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent to Akeso Hospice or Holy Family Parish, in Tom’s memory.
This obituary can be viewed and condolences sent to www.higgins-reardon.com.
(special notice)