Thomas (Tommy) A. DeLillo passed on January 25, 2020 in New City, New York.
Tommy was born February 22, 1957 in the Bronx, New York. the second child of Georgina and Anthony DeLillo. Tommy grew up in Oradell and graduated from Riverdell Regional High School in 1975.
He studied the craft of stage carpentry at Bergen Community College where he earned an associate’s degree in 1977 and was certified in stage electronics, television production, high rigging and heavy equipment from The New School.
Tommy’s creativity, ability to solve problems and work with others helped him build a successful, four-decade career in the film, stage production and television as a member of I.A.T.S.E. Locals 52 and 632.
His professional credits included work on Law & Order Special Victims Unit, Queer Eye, Project Runway All Stars, the Stepford Wives and dozens of performances at Giants Stadium ranging from artists including Bruce Springsteen, The Rolling Stones, Elton John, Billy Joel, The Who and the Grateful Dead.
While Tommy worked with some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry, his fondest memories came from spending time with the family of friends he met on the job.
From Yankees games to concerts to weekends at the jersey shore to fishing trips, Tommy and his forever pack of childhood friends always lived life to the fullest and remained close throughout his life.
When Tommy met Christine, in the late 90’s, his life was complete--he had found a perfect career, had amazing friends and family, and now he found his true soulmate. In 2007, they married and settled down in Nyack, New York.
After Tommy was diagnosed with cancer in early 2018, he and Christine decided to make the most of every day. They visited friends, learned new hobbies, laughed and enjoyed simple, quiet times together.
Tommy never complained or asked, "Why me?" He approached cancer with the same bravery and determination that defined him. He inspired everyone in his life to live each day as if it were their last. He even attended a Dead and Company show at The Garden on Halloween.
In his final days, Tommy was visited by loved ones from Maine to West Virginia and comforted by Christine who never left his side. Before taking his last breath, Tommy squeezed Christine’s hand and flashed that loving smile that lit up any room he ever walked in to. He wanted us to know that things were going to be fine and that he was ready for his next journey alongside his loving family members and closest friends who are waiting to welcome him home in heaven.
Fare thee well Tommy!
Tommy is survived by his wife Christine, mother Georgina, his sister Georgina M, his son Rory, daughter Brianna, stepdaughter Amanda and three grandchildren Madison, John, and Arianna, step granddaughter.