Obituary of Thomas M. Gerbasi

Thomas Michael Gerbasi, 57, of Staten Island, NY formerly from Brooklyn, NY has sadly passed away on September 16, 2025 surrounded by his loved ones on his 31^st wedding anniversary to his loving wife Sonia Rodriguez Gerbasi. Tom was the beloved son of Susan Gerbasi and the late Thomas Gerbasi.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, friend and colleague to many he lived his life with a heart of gold filled with generosity, kindness and love. He is survived by his mother Susan Gerbasi, best friend and wife Sonia Rodriguez Gerbasi, his daughter, Jordan Gerbasi Fanticola; his son in law Jason Fanticola; and his two cherished granddaughters, Sheala and Olivia Fanticola also known as his “buddies”.

Thomas never backed down from a challenge, and loved living life to the fullest. He had such a zest for life and loved making every moment count. Along with running the NYC Marathon twice, he was captain of his soccer team, fought in the Golden Gloves, and in his spare time loved to find new places to eat, played his APBA baseball game, painted figurines and he loved to read. 

Thomas was more than any job title he ever had. He was a gifted writer with an incredible ability to tell a story, a mentor to many, and a living book of knowledge. His generosity throughout his entire life knew no bounds even up until his final hours, as he was an organ donor, being a hero and giving the gift of life to someone else. He believed in everyone even when they didn’t believe in themselves, which is a true testament to his heart of gold. His passing has sent shockwaves across the entire MMA/Boxing Industry as he was admired for not just the work he did but the human being he was. His legacy will continue to live on especially in the countless lives he impacted. Thomas’s endless list of accomplishments will not be forgotten especially his latest book Boxing, The 100 Greatest Fighters.

The most honorable thing about Thomas was the devotion he had as a husband, son, father and grandfather. The bond he shared with his “buddies” was incredible. Papa as they called him was their best friend. He shared many memories with them, especially their frequent trips to Chuck E Cheese, bowling, the bookstore, and even for some orange floats at Shake Shack. He never once missed a day of dropping his granddaughter off at school. 

His words of wisdom,  sense of humor,  infectious smile and laugh, kindness, and generosity will never be forgotten and will live on forever. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. May he rest in the sweetest peace.

Memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025 from 3pm-7pm at Matthew’s Funeral Home on Staten Island, NY.