Thomas Bickford

CASCO — Thomas J. Bickford, 49, of Casco, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2016, at his home.

He was born on June 13, 1966, in Portland, the son of Leonard E. and Dorothy J. (McFarland) Bickford Sr. He grew up in South Portland and graduated from South Portland High School in 1984. Tommy started working at the age of 14 for Southern Maine Cleaning Company, then went on to work for Smaha’s Legion Square Market, Hutchins Trucking, and was currently employed for the last 20 years as a city carrier for the U.S. Postal Service. He often referred to himself as Carrier 690, which was the route he delivered in the Knightville area of South Portland for many years. Although he faced health issues that would keep many a man down, he would force himself to get up and go to work to complete his appointed rounds. There were times when he would deliver the route then head straight to the hospital to be hooked up to an antibiotic drip.

He was a man of little words, but had the biggest heart and was a very spiritual soul. He was there for everyone whenever they needed him. He liked swimming in Sebago Lake, watching the beautiful sunsets while sipping on a Twisted Tea, golfing and traveling with Dad, having heart-to-heart talks with Mom, playing poker at all the Bickford get-togethers, playing cribbage, driving around with his music blaring, and spending time with his friends.

Tommy had a great sense of humor and you could see the twinkle in his eyes when he was joking around with you.

He is survived by his loving parents, Leonard and Dorothy Bickford Sr. of Casco; brother, Leonard Bickford Jr. of Gorham; sisters, Diane Payzant of Norridgewock and Lynn Bickford of Casco; a nephew and nieces; many aunts, uncles and friends.

Visiting hours were held on at Conroy-Tully Crawford South Portland Chapel, 1024 Broadway, South Portland. Prayers were recited at the funeral home on Monday at 10:15 a.m. followed by an 11 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at Holy Cross Church, 124 Cottage Road, South Portland. Burial followed at Calvary Cemetery, South Portland. Arrangements are under the direction of Conroy-Tully Crawford South Portland Chapel. To view Thomas’ memorial page or to share an online condolence, please visit: www.ctcrawford.com