MARIETTA, Ga.—Thomas Edward Abbott, a veteran sales representative for Visual Eyes Eyewear, died at his home here on March 31, following a battle with esophageal cancer. He was 76 years-old.

Abbott was born in Fairfield, Conn. on June 23, 1938, and was a longtime resident of Marietta. He served in the Navy, and was the youngest first-class petty officer at the time of his service. He worked in all levels of the optical business for over 50 years, the last 15 of which were spent in sales for Visual Eyes Eyewear, serving customers in the Eastern region.

“It was very difficult hearing of Tom’s passing,” said Ray Hyman, president/CEO of Visual Eyes. “Tom broke the news to us three years ago about his diagnosis, and worked up until the last day. He was family to me and to all of my staff, and it has been a very trying week for all of us here. He will be severely missed by his family, all of us at Visual Eyes, every one of his customers and anyone who knew him.”

Abbott is survived by his wife of 47 years, Diane, and daughter, Susan. A funeral service is set for Saturday, April 11 at 12:30 pm at Holy Innocents Episcopal Church, 805 Mount Vernon Hwy NW, Atlanta, Ga., 30327. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the church.