Obituary of Boyd Thomas Letts III

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Boyd T. Letts III (Tom) on July 5 th, 2024. Tom was born on November 6th, 1951 to Boyd Jr. and Frances Letts in Cortland, NY. Tom was a graduate of Cortland Sr High School (1970) and Canton ATC (1972) where he received a degree in Food Service. Growing up in Cortland, Tom's joking nature and quick wit gained him many friendships that continued throughout his life. While in high school, Tom began dating Connie O'Mara and she became the love of his life. The high school sweethearts were married on October 20, 1973 and recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary surrounded by their children and grandchildren. Soon after they married, Tom and Connie moved to Horseheads, NY where they raised their sons Joe and Matt and made many dear friends. Tom was the proud owner of Lums Restaurant in Big Flats, NY for 30 years. When he wasn't behind the grill, Tom loved checking in on his customers, especially his regular breakfast crowd. Tom was a committed and hardworking business owner and father. Tom coached his sons in Horseheads Little League and Babe Ruth Baseball as well as Horseheads Youth Basketball. Tom was a lifelong sports enthusiast. In high school, he played basketball and baseball, often bragging to his sons how "legendary" he was as a player. In later years, he was an avid bowler and golfer. He followed many sports teams, including the St. Louis Cardinals, Yankees, Bills and Syracuse. He shared his love of sports with his grandchildren, following their baseball games, cheering them on at the sidelines, and bringing baseball cards and Syracuse hats for them when he visited. Tom was a devoted husband to his wife Connie, and the two were constant companions. Tom was willing to do anything for Connie--always ready to repaint a room, rearrange furniture, or hang a new photo. As a dad he was always ready to help with math homework, shoot hoops in the driveway, or bring wings home for the big game. Tom cherished his time with family and made his loved ones his first priority. Tom had close relationships with his sons and truly was a phone call away. He stayed on top of how his boys were doing and what was new in their lives. He particularly loved teasing his sons about who had the nicest looking lawn. Tom's greatest pride was being a father to Joe and Matt and a husband to his wife Connie. He was a true family man. Tom was a beloved "Gramps" and took much joy from being a grandfather. He was his grandchildren's biggest fan and always encouraged their interests in sports or schools. He brought thoughtful or funny gifts when he visited and he made the best pancake breakfasts. Tom's family is grateful for the love and support of their close friends who were with him to the end. The family would also like to express their gratitude to the Guthrie ER in Corning, NY for their kindness and compassion. Tom will be remembered for the humor and kindness he brought to his loving family and friends. Tom was predeceased by his parents Boyd Jr. and Frances Letts as well as his father in-law James O'Mara, brother-in-law Stephen O'Mara and cousin Shera Nobles. Tom is survived by his loving wife, Connie and his sons Joseph (Suzanne) Letts of Hanover, MA and Matthew (Stephanie) Letts of Holden, MA. His brother Bruce Letts of Homer, NY, mother-in-law Beatrice O'Mara, brother-in-laws James Michael O'Mara and Patrick O'Mara, Sister-in-law Kathie O'Mara, who live in Cortland, NY. Also his cherished grandchildren, Henry, George, Sullivan and Eleanor who was the apple of his eye. Calling Hours will be held at Wright Beard Funeral Home in Cortland, NY on July 11, 2024 from 10am to 12pm with service and burial immediately following. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association or the American Cancer Society.