Thomas V. DeMaio of Pawley’s Island, South Carolina, died on January 17, 2017, surrounded by his children. He was 88.
Born June 11, 1928, in Brooklyn, he attended Brockport State Teachers College, earned a master’s degree from Hofstra University, and became an elementary school teacher in Bay Shore. In 1950, in Springfield, Long Island, he married Joan Jolly, who predeceased him. Mr. DeMaio began to sell World Book Encyclopedia during the summer months and became so successful that he was offered and accepted full time employment as a branch sales manager. His work took him and his family to Chicago, then to Kansas City, Missouri and, eventually, to New Jersey. The couple first retired to Westhampton Beach but then moved to Pawley’s Island. Mr. DeMaio most recently resided at The Lakes at Litchfield, where he developed many close friendships. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus.
He is survived by four children, Diane of New York City, Laura of Florida, Tom Jr. of Singapore, and Warren of Illinois; and eight grandchildren.
A memorial Mass was held at the Precious Blood of Christ Catholic Church on January 23. Funeral arrangements were under the direction of the Goldfinch Funeral Home, Beach Chapel in South Carolina.
Memorial donations may be made to the Knights of Columbus, kofc.org.
Sign an online guestbook at www.goldfinchfuneralhome.com
on Jan 23, 2017