Thomas "Tom" Vincent Hazelton

Thomas Vincent Hazelton, lovingly known as "Tom", passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025, after a long battle with COPD.  He was preceded in death by his sister, Geraldine “Gerry” Price, and is survived by his wife, Krystyna Hazelton; his son, Thomas Hazelton, and daughter-in-law, Kelly Hazelton; his daughter, Leah Whyte, and partner, Shamus Whyte; his daughter, Jamie Cappelletti, and partner, David Cappelletti; and his beloved grandchildren, Alanah Hazelton, Tucker Hazelton, Willa Whyte, Van Cappelletti, Levi Cappelletti, Ciel Whyte, and Trevor Cappelletti.  Tom’s quiet yet strong presence will be lovingly remembered by family and friends.

Born during a snowstorm on February 4, 1947, in Jersey City, New Jersey, Tom often shared stories of a youth filled with mischief, “doo-wop” music, and basketball.  At the age of 25, he left city life in search of a quieter place to raise a family.  He and his wife, Krys, settled in Pennsylvania, where he pursued a long and fulfilling career as a chemist and product manager with Quaker Chemical Corporation until his retirement.  He enjoyed the travel his career afforded him and touched many lives with his luminous presence, sharp mind and quick wit.  He proudly claimed the silver hair he “earned” after the birth of his son and twin daughters.

After retiring in 2003, Tom devoted his time to grandchildren, books, and nature walks.  He found joy in life’s simple gifts: the richness of family, a thunderstorm rolling in, hawk-gazing at Valley Forge, feeling the breeze through his silver locks, a tidy room, and a cup of tea.  A patriot and a lover of history, he remained deeply engaged with current events throughout his life.

In 2020, Tom and Krys moved to Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, where he enjoyed trips to the local dairy for ice cream and peaceful drives through the countryside.  He cherished taking the long way home—never rushing, a reflection of his approach to life.  His battle with COPD lasted many years, but sustained by a strong will and the love of his family, he never gave up the fight.  The “Hazelton gene” of tearing up during life’s most precious moments ran strong in Tom and continued to surface even in his final days.

In true and intentional fashion, Tom left this world peacefully during a small, surprise snowstorm at the start of winter, just as the light begins to return.  He will be remembered as a thoughtful listener and a steady holder of space for those he loved.

Relatives and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life honoring Thomas Hazelton on Sunday, January 18, 2026.  PLEASE SEE THIS LINK FOR INFORMATION AND FAMILY REQUEST FOR RSVP.  CLICK HERE

Guests are encouraged to wear color instead of traditional black, in keeping with Tom’s wish to celebrate the richness of life rather than focus on the sadness of his passing.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Longwood Fire Company in Kennett Square, PA.  click HERE for a memorial donation in memory of Tom

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