Thomas "Tom" Michael Halstead, age 76, of New Bedford passed away on April 6, 2024 after a brief illness, surrounded by his loving family.

Thomas was born on July 29, 1947 in New Bedford, MA and grew up attending New Bedford public schools. Thomas married Isilda Vieira of Dartmouth, Massachusetts on August 16, 1969 in Dartmouth, MA.

Tom received a Bachelor in Science from SMU. Tom worked in the Sales and Commercial Fishing industry for over 45 years. He traveled the world making many lasting friends and memories. He was a proud board member of the Dartmouth Girls Little League. He continued the girls' basketball clinic and was a part of the league for many years coaching and improving the youth basketball program. Known by many from this clinic, he loved seeing all his players and even their children continue to play basketball. He spent many years coaching his son, Michael, for the Hetland Hawks. He was a referee for several years making many friends along the way.

Tom loved Motown, Jazz and pretty much all things music, even music you would least suspect. Playing the keyboard, and singing any chance he could get. Riding in his convertible, top down, blasting music was one of his greatest joys. Taking rides to the beach listening to some tunes was what he enjoyed most. He played in many bands over the years, including his own band known as the "Squires" with his best friend of many years, Ray Gelinas. They practiced in the basement of his home over the years, a great memory to his children. Tom played many years in the Men's softball league for team Harry O's, lots of great times, friends and laughs along the way. Traveling and having his entire family under one roof was when he was happiest.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Isilda 'Zelda' (Vieira) Halstead and his loving children, Mary Beth Halstead, Michael Halstead, and his wife Melissa, Meaghan Napolitano (Halstead) and her husband Michael, and Maureen Halstead. His grandchildren whom he loved so very dearly, Madison Halstead, Avery Halstead, Ethan Halstead, Morgan Napolitano, Noah Finch, Luke Resendes, Jack Napolitano and Mia Finch. As well as his loving niece, Christine (Perry) Conway and his nephew Shaun Perry, who he loved dearly and will keep close to his heart, as well as many other cousins and family members he loved.

If you knew Tom, you knew how proud he was of his children, but even more proud of his grandchildren. He was an amazing father and grandfather. His world revolved around them! Lovingly, known as 'Papa', they were his greatest accomplishment! He made sure to attend any and all sporting events he could, even as it became increasingly difficult for him to do so. He lit up when you asked how one of his grand kids were doing, quick to take out a picture from his wallet to show off and share all their greatest accomplishments, big or small. The memories of Papa will live on through his grandchildren, the stories will continue to be shared, the pictures will be cherished and the love he had for them will be ever present.

He was preceded in death by Alfred Halstead (Father), Helen Halstead (Mother), Donald Baker (Brother), Carol Perry (Sister), Matthew Perry (Nephew), Lucrecia Vieira (Mother-in-law) and Joseph Vieira (Father-in-law).

The family would like to thank those who cared for Tom, especially over the last couple of months. Your grace and patience are appreciated more than you know and we are forever thankful for you!

Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 13th from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm at Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park Street, New Bedford, MA. Burial will be private and at a later date.