Karl Philip Tinsley

Karl Philip Tinsley, 75, of Middleboro, passed away on Wednesday, January 25, 2023, at home surrounded by his family after a battle with heart disease. He was born in Brockton, to Thomas and Gertrude (Heffernan) Tinsley on November 12, 1947. He grew up in Bridgewater where he developed lifelong friendships and a great love for sports. His childhood home was known as the meeting spot for pickup basketball games.

He was a graduate of Bridgewater Raynham High School and was a Captain of the High School baseball team. He later received a degree in education from Bridgewater University (BSU) and went onto receive his masters from BSU as well.

While in college he met his wife of almost 51 years, Cathleen A. (Foley) Tinsley (married February 19, 1972).

He taught science at Apponequet Middle School for 13 years. He was also the Varsity Baseball Coach at Apponequet High School and in his first year was named coach of the year by the New Bedford Standard Times as well as the Taunton Gazette. Karl also coached CYO Basketball for over 20 years in Middleboro. 

He was an active member of Sacred Heart Church in Middleboro and served on their finance committee for 30 plus years. He taught CCD for over 20 years, a frequent lector at weekly mass and an active member of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul a Non-Profit organization in Middleboro. He also served on the Bridgewater Credit Union Board of Directors for over a decade.

Karl was a Senior Vice President at Primerica Financial Services for almost 40 years. He thoroughly enjoyed his colleagues and considered his clients friends.

He loved working in his yard and attending to his numerous bird-feeders. He was often seen riding around town in one of his meticulously cared for Nissan Maxima’s. He was an avid fan of all New England Sports but mostly enjoyed watching and following at the local and collegiate level. He loved to travel with his wife Cathy, family and friends, an avid golfer and was considered the captain/organizer amongst his senior golf buddies for their weekly rounds.

Karl was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. His grandchildren affectionately referred to him as Bump and he looked forward to their visits. He would drive all over to attend their sporting events, concerts and ceremonies. Karl was a great storyteller and used this skill to instill in them work ethic, kindness and integrity.

He is survived by his loving wife, Cathy; children, Mary (Tinsley) Spinale and husband Domenic Spinale of Winthrop, MA and Kevin Tinsley of Dorchester, MA; Daughter in law Jolene Connaire of Winthrop, MA; grandchildren: Domenic Spinale, Joseph Spinale and Brayden Tinsley of Winthrop, MA. 

He is also survived by his brother Paul Tinsley and his wife Cindy of East Bridgewater; brother in law Robert Foley and his wife Judy of Bridgewater; niece Heather Ebels and husband Michael of Hingham, niece Kristen Foley of Bridgewater and nephew Michael Foley of Connecticut as well as several great nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours for Karl will be held on Sunday, February 5, 2023, from 5:00 - 8:00PM at Dahlborg-MacNevin Funeral Home 280 Bedford Street Lakeville, MA 02347. A Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, February 6, 2023, at 10:00AM, at Sacred Heart Church 340 Center Street, Middleboro, MA 02346. Karl will be laid to rest in Saint Mary’s Cemetery, 135 Wood Street, Middleboro, MA 02346 immediately following the funeral mass. 

In lieu of flowers donations should be made to the:
Sacred Heart / Society of St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry,
53 Oak Street, Middleborough, MA 02346.
You can visit their website at:
https://www.svdpmiddleboro.org/pantry.html

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Karl Philip Tinsley, please visit our floral store.