Thomas Francis Vanasse

Thomas Francis Vanasse, 93, of Fall River, Massachusetts, passed away on August 26, 2026.

    He was the devoted husband of the late Norma (Borden) Vanasse.

    Born in Fall River, he was the son of the late Mary (O’Connon) Vanasse.

    Thomas proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. Following his military service, he became a Fall River Firefighter, dedicating 32 years to the department before his retirement. He was also the former owner of Bristol Barber Supply. A true family man and a great dad, Thomas had a profound love for Walt Disney; he visited the parks dozens of times over his lifetime and joyfully kept Mickey Mouse memorabilia in every room of his house. He was a passionate fan of the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots, and he loved to travel—a passion he proudly passed down to his children.

    He is survived by his five daughters: Sherill Vanasse and husband David Paquette of Swansea; Donna Vanasse of Swansea; Lisa Simoes and husband Mark of Dighton; Kathleen Soares of Fall River; and Christine Vanasse of Fall River. He also leaves behind 7 grandchildren, many great and great great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son, Thomas Vanasse Jr.; his brothers, John and Ronald Vanasse; his sisters, Maureen Crowley, Pauline Leach, and Joan Rioux; and Sister Monice Houston, R.S.M., whom he considered to be like a mother to him.

    Visitation hours will be held on Tuesday from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Oliveira Funeral Home, South Main St. Chapel, 2064 South Main St, Fall River, MA 02724.

    His funeral service will take place on Wednesday, beginning at 9:00 AM at the funeral home, followed by a 10:00 AM service at Good Shepherd Church. Following the church service, the procession will drive by the Globe Street Fire Station, before concluding with burial at St. Patrick's Cemetery.