Theodore Joseph Pinto Sr.

Theodore Joseph Pinto, Sr. passed away on January 4, 2026, at Middlesex Hospital in Middletown, Connecticut. He was 78 years old. Born on March 5, 1947 in Hartford, Theodore was the beloved son of the late Joseph William Pinto and Eleanor (Lapenta) Pinto. He was predeceased by his brother, William Pinto, with whom he shared a lifelong bond. Theodore grew up in the Italian South End of Hartford and graduated from South Catholic High School in 1965. He went on to attend The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Economics. Following his brief service in the National Guard, Theodore built a successful career at Travelers Insurance Company in Hartford until his retirement in 1994.

Theodore’s passions reflected his generous spirit. He was a dedicated basketball coach and community leader. Theodore founded and cultivated CYO programs at St. Augustine in Hartford and Sacred Heart in Wethersfield, leaving a lasting impact on countless young athletes and families. He had an eclectic taste for fine foods and fashion that rivaled any chef or pet. He loved his Yankees and was an accomplished horse whisperer. Theodore shared his talents with any that would listen, especially when debating about sports or politics with The Wizard, Moose, family and friends.

Above all else, Theodore was a family man. His favorite memories were of his Italian grandmother's house in Madison, Connecticut and he was affectionately known as Pumpkin Doodle, Grandpa, Papa and Bear. He was the loving husband of Phyllis Martin Pinto, his partner in life and heart. He was a proud and devoted father to his daughter, Julia Pinto, and her husband, Richard Bloomfield, and to his son, Theodore Pinto, Jr., and his wife, Jaime Pinto. He adored his grandchildren, Carter, Kole, Attila, Ella and Ava and he is survived by many cherished cousins in the Solazzo and Lapenta families.

His presence was grounding, his humor constant, and his love unmistakable. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The family will receive relatives and friends on Friday, January 23 from 4-6 p.m. at the D’Esopo Funeral Chapel, 277 Folly Brook Blvd., Wethersfield. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the Pinto family name to the Keane Foundation in Wethersfield at https://keanefoundation.org