Thomas J. Howard IV, 53, of Agawam was called home and entered into everlasting life on January 28th at Baystate Medical Center surrounded by his loved ones.  He was the beloved son of Dr. Theresa D. Howard of West Springfield and the late Thomas J. Howard III. Born on January 4, 1969, Tommy graduated from Cathedral High School, attended Wilbraham Monson Academy and went on to graduate from Westfield State University.  Soccer was his favorite sport and he lead and played on the teams of all three schools. He was employed by the Town of West Springfield Forestry Department during high school and college.  He then went on to a long career with Costco, most of which spent at West Springfield- 302 store. Tommy was a real hometown boy who loved the Town of West Springfield.  He was also a loyal Boston sports fan to his favorite teams being the Red Sox, New England Patriots, Celtics and Bruins. However, anyone who knew Tommy knows that he was an avid Notre Dame fan and attended several games in South Bend, Indiana. He 'played like a champion' in all ways and venues of his life. Tommy leaves behind to cherish his memory his mother Dr. Theresa D. Howard of West Springfield and his two children who he adored and was so proud of: Kaeli E. Howard of West Springfield and Thomas J. Howard V of Agawam. He also leaves behind his sister, Laura Gronski of West Springfield, his niece and nephew Meaghan Gronski and Collin Gronski of West Springfield, his aunt and uncle Cynthia and Ronald Wong of Murrells Inlet, SC and many cousins including one of his favorite people in the world Sharon Kelley of Limington, ME. He lastly leaves behind his fiance and life partner Kimberly Sady of West Springfield and so many friends including his very best friend and sidekick Quint, aka Dinosaur, his beloved yellow lab who will miss him deeply. Tommy had so many friends and people who loved him. He had a great sense of humor and a kind heart.  He was always available to lend a hand to anyone who needed it.  He was the life of the party and loved to make people laugh. He was a beacon of light for his family who will miss him very dearly. Tommy requested that there be no formal arrangements, but instead wishes that there be a celebration of life, "in the summer when the sun is shining" where everyone can toast and remember the good times.  The West Springfield Curran-Jones Funeral Home is handling all arrangements.  For online condolences please visit curranjones.com. Donations may be made to the charity of one's choice.

Remember him with a smile. In death as in life, we will always adore, admire and cherish him.