Thomas Casper Melbert, 83 of Higganum, passed away peacefully on February 4th, 2024.  He is predeceased by his parents Llewellyn and Gladys Melbert, his sister and brother-in-law Barbara and Thomas E Hummel, and his great nephew Philip Hewes.

After receiving his BS from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Tom went on to earn his Masters and PhD in Philosophy from Columbia University.  He was a professor of English and chairman of the 4-1-4 committee at Russell Sage College.

Tom was a much-loved Professor of English Literature and taught many years at Middlesex Community College.  His students often shared how he helped them find a love of literature.  Tom retired from his professorship at Middlesex in 2003.

As well as being a prolific painter and self-taught artist, Tom was a voracious reader.  He also loved to travel and enjoyed his trips to Germany, Amsterdam, Portugal, Paris and more.  His all-time favorite place to travel was London and he had the opportunity to go there many times.

Tom is survived by his nieces Mary Lou Moiger of Glastonbury, Priscilla Hoover of East Haddam, his nephew Thomas P. Hummel of Middletown, six great nieces and nephews, and his dear and close friend Joan Donati of Moodus.

There will be no calling hours and the burial will be private.