Scott Ward

Scott was born in New London, CT, on August 19, 1966, the son of the late Clifford Ward. He grew up in Ivoryton, CT, and lived there until 1996, graduating from Valley Regional High School in 1985. From the age of 13, Scott worked alongside his father, Clifford, and his 'Gramps' as a meat cutter at the Ivoryton store, where he developed a strong work ethic that he carried throughout his life.

In 1992, Scott met Kathy while she was bartending at the Ivoryton Tavern. The two became friends, and their relationship blossomed. On August 10, 1996, they were married, beginning a loving partnership that lasted 28 years. Scott and Kathy shared a deep, caring, and cherished bond.

In 2003, Scott and his family opened Cliff’s Quality Meats in Essex, where Scott worked tirelessly to ensure that his customers were always taken care of, often working through weekends and holidays. His customers became his friends, and he built lasting relationships within the community. Over the years, Scott had the privilege of working not only with his father but also with his son, Frank, and his grandsons, Sebastian and Bryan. He was also grateful to have Chris Lincke join the team in 2020, who became an invaluable help during challenging times. Together, they ensured that even during the worst snowstorms, local and state police, as well as the State DOT, were well-fed with hot meals and coffee.

Scott was an active and beloved member of both the Old Saybrook and Essex Fire Departments, where he was honored with numerous awards for his service. His generosity extended beyond his family; he often donated turkeys, sandwich platters, and meals to underprivileged families during the holidays, and cooked for fire department meetings.

Outside of work, Scott had a deep love for the open ocean, particularly boating and fishing. He often spent his days off on the Connecticut River and in Long Island Sound, fishing with his son, grandsons, and his friend Mike. Those peaceful moments on the water brought him great joy and provided him with a special connection to the ones he loved.

In addition to his wife Kathy, Scott is survived by his son, Frank Serio III, and daughter-in-law, Tara (Faldman) Serio, of Portland, CT; his daughter, Michelle Serio of Jacksonville, FL; two grandchildren, Sebastian Branciforte and Bryan Blakeslee, who lovingly called him 'Pop Pop' or 'Pops'; and one great-grandchild, Arabella Blakeslee. He also leaves behind his sister, Katherine Raymond of Windsor Locks; his brother, J. Scott LaCross, and fiancée Jenn Kocse of Ivoryton; many nieces, nephews, cousins; a mother-in-law, Sandy Long; brothers-in-law Bill and Jim; sister-in-law Sandy; devoted friends; and loyal patrons. He was predeceased by his father, Clifford Ward; his grandfather, 'Gramps'; and his father-in-law, Richard (Dick) Long.

Scott’s family will receive friends on Friday, January 17, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home, 34 Main St., Centerbrook, CT. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 10 a.m. at the Essex Fire Engine Co. #1, 11 Saybrook Rd., Essex, CT, followed by interment at Centerbrook Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Scott’s memory to the Essex Fire Engine Co. #1.

To share a memory or leave condolences, please visit www.rwwfh.com.