Joseph Scott Romano (“Pops”), 66, of Middletown, Connecticut, passed away peacefully shortly after sunrise on May 28, 2026 — likely heading off to find a better fishing spot and finally prove the fish really were “this big.”

Scott attended Vinal Technical School and graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School with the Class of 1978. He was a devoted husband, loving father figure, proud grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and loyal friend whose warmth, wit, and perfectly timed one-liners touched everyone who knew him. Known affectionately as “Pops,” he brought comfort, laughter, and strength to his family and friends throughout his life. He was the rock that held his family together — dependable, steady, and always ready with advice, a helping hand, or a sarcastic comment delivered with a grin. An earlier riser by nature, Scott could often be found up before the sun, enjoying the quiet start of the day with a cup of coffee, feeding the birds, or planning his next fishing trip. He especially enjoyed keeping his wife, Louise, on her toes with his antics and sense of humor.

Scott retired from Wesleyan University in 2020, where he was respected for his hard work, dedication, and ability to fix just about anything. A skilled finish carpenter and handyman, he took great pride in working with his hands and was always willing to lend his talents to family, friends, and neighbors. Whether repairing something broken or building something from scratch, Scott approached every project with patience, craftsmanship, and probably a few colorful words when the instructions didn’t make sense.

A lover of all animals, Scott never met a stray he wouldn’t feed or a neighborhood dog he didn’t have a treat ready for. He faithfully fed the birds each morning and always kept dog treats nearby for the neighborhood dogs he met on walks. He found peace and pride in tending to his garden, especially his many tomato plants, and was well known among family and friends for his homemade jarred peppers and green tomatoes.

A true creature of habit, Scott found joy in life’s simple routines. Whether he was tending to the chickens, collecting fresh eggs, reading his morning paper, or carefully logging his catches in one of his many journals, he appreciated the quiet moments that made life meaningful. If Scott wasn’t out on the water crabbing, fishing, or clamming, he could usually be found relaxing in his shed listening to his favorite music, watching classic sitcoms, cheering on the Boston Red Sox, New York Giants, and UConn Huskies, telling stories, or spending time with his buddies at the club watching a game and solving the world’s problems one conversation at a time. He also loved taking vacations with his family, creating countless memories filled with laughter and adventure.

Scott also loved cooking and sharing food with the people he loved. He was especially proud of making stuffed clams from his latest haul and preparing his famous stuffed mushrooms. Countless hours were spent alongside Melissa picking meat from hundreds of blue crabs he scooped each season — time filled with stories, laughter, and memories that will be treasured forever.

Above all else, Scott treasured every moment spent with his granddaughter, Ava. Whether he was waiting with her at the bus stop, sneaking her treats, or proudly snapping photos to capture every milestone, she was truly the light of his life and brought him endless pride, laughter, and happiness.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Louise Sambor Romano; his stepdaughters, Melissa Peterson and Holly Pair-Hoshaw; his cherished granddaughter, Ava Hope Cales; his brother, Rick Romano, and Rick’s wife, Rochele; his niece, Rose, and nephew, Ricky; as well as many loving cousins, and dear friends who will miss him deeply.

Scott was predeceased by his parents, Joseph Romano and Maureen (Farrands) Romano.

Scott will be remembered for his caring heart, unwavering love for family, strong work ethic, and the countless memories and laughs he shared with those closest to him. Though his presence will be deeply missed, his stories, humor, and spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be held on Thursday (June 11th) from 4 to 6 p.m. at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver St., Middletown. Burial will be at the convenience of his family in Calvary Cemetery. To share memories, express condolences and view more of his obituary please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.