I grew up on Favored Lane in Levittown.  Telly, as we knew him then, was one of four guys who grew up together.  Joe McSherry, Joe Quinn, Telly and myself.

Telly and I dated best friends in high school and spent many fun times together.  I experienced my first kiss at  a teen party at Telly's house.  We played "52" shift but I liked my partner and we refused to switch despite the jeers and boos of the gang.

Telly was even tempered and he played the accordion with gusto.  I was at his house the night President John F. Kennedy gave his frightening Cuban Missile Crisis speech to the nation.  We left thinking that we would likely not live to see Monday morning (it was a Friday night).

Telly was a public school kid but we went to Bishop Egan.  He entered the US Navy, Joe McSherry the US Marines, Joe Quinn the US Army and me The Army Reserve.

In high school we went our separate ways.  I went to college and the three guys all entered the US Armed Services.  Telly lived next door to my parents for the bulk of his married life.  He was a good man and loved and respected by most everyone that knew him.

Joyce and Heather, Keith and Matt

I am so sorry and saddened to hear about TJ. 

TJ truly was a brother. We were partners in crime. We traveled to DC, New York, North Jersey and Boston many times. Had lunch together almost every day for close to 20 years, and covered for each other during rough times. We went on several fishing trips, took his father along, and even shared the great string band experience. 

We shared many many laughs. His memory is a treasure. I will deeply miss my dear friend.

Joyce & family:
My deepest sympathy to you.  I remember the good times we  had growing up in Levittown; Telly will always be part of those memories.

Around the office at Bell (Verizon), TJ always had a smile on his face and a kind word.  Will remember him fondly.

Joyce and Heather, Keith, Matt and all:

I’m so sorry for your loss.  TJ was a great human and such a good friend to all.  He’s been on my mind all week.  I have no words that can adequately express how I feel at reading this news.  My brother from another mother.  My train buddy who fed my habit and indulged me when I turned the train throttle up a bit too much at Christmas.  A hard worker, good friend, always ready with a smile or encouragement and sometimes a hard truth.  For me, his best quality was how much he cared for and about his friends and family, those he loved.  He’ll leave such an empty spot.  I hope in time you think more about the good times and all the smiles and laughter you all shared.  Holding you all close in my heart.

Love,
Judy

Heather and Joyce, This is a sad time indeed losing Telly. He was a decent, fun loving, family first man. Please know you are in my thoughts as you continue forward and may many wonderful memories  sustain you.

Meg McSherry

Telesfor and Catherine Florist

Joyce M. Florist

Keith Sykes

Matthew Sykes and Brittany Hughes

Heather and Mark Kiefer

Brandon, Hunter, Corey, Mark, Chase, Grace and Addison

James J. Dougherty Funeral Home, Inc.

Telesfor Florist

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Telesfor J. Florist Jr.

25 June, 1947 – 31 January, 2024

James J. Dougherty Funeral Home, Inc.

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