Thomas Gonzalez Jr.

Obituary For Thomas Gonzalez Jr.

Thomas Gonzalez Jr. was born to Isabel “Celine” Nunez and Thomas Gonzalez Sr. on January 21, 1954. He was born in Lincoln Hospital and was raised in the South Bronx. He was affectionately called “Tommy” for short and was raised in a Spanish-speaking household, gradually learning English throughout the years. He was a believer in the Catholic faith and was a fan of ’80s rock and roll, bolero, and salsa. His most prized possession was his electric guitar, and he would often play his favorite songs on it.

He enlisted in the U.S. Army on April 1, 1977, and was honorably discharged on February 18, 1984, as a Flight Operations Coordinator, where his love for aviation blossomed. During his service, he received the Good Conduct Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the NCO Professional Development Ribbon, and the Multinational Forces Observer Medal.

Tommy was a strong-willed, hardworking, and reliable man. He worked two jobs—one at Montefiore Hospital and another at Fordham University as security—and officially retired in 2024. He was titled the family’s “handyman”; if he wasn’t making repairs on his car, he would help with any maintenance issues the family may have had. Tommy was a man of few words, the “strong and silent type.” He rarely talked about himself, preferred to listen to others, and often enjoyed his own company, living a carefree and independent life. However, once he knew you were in a bind, needed transportation, had a table to fix, or needed a place to sleep, he would offer his help without question. His actions were louder than his words, and everyone who knew him knew he was thoughtful and caring.

Tommy was proud of his Indigenous Puerto Rican and Spanish heritage. He frequently traveled to both countries throughout the years, learning more about his ancestry and visiting the places his family had lived and experienced. He also traveled to other countries such as Egypt, South Korea, Iraq, and many more.

He loved collecting souvenirs and historical memorabilia from his travels and would often bring something back for himself and his family. His favorite possessions were his Japanese katanas, figurines of Taíno warriors, and his Spanish conquistador helmet. His last trip was to Spain in the summer of 2025, where he brought back a portrait of the Sagrada Familia for his daughter.

Tommy passed away on October 25, 2025, peacefully at his home, surrounded by photos of his family, memories of his youth, and his many souvenirs from years of travel. He is survived by his three daughters, one of whom, Celine Gonzalez, was named after his mother’s nickname. Tommy and Celine shared a close bond, the same love for rock and roll music and world history, and he always made sure she was well taken care of—encouraging her to pursue her academics and, most importantly, to be happy and safe. Celine’s mother, Karen Thompson, who knew Thomas for 30 years, considered him one of her closest friends and knew that no matter what, they would always be there for each other as family. He is reunited with his mother, Isabel Nunez; his father, Thomas Gonzalez Sr.; and his brother, Herberto “Herbie” Gonzalez. He leaves behind a host of family and friends.

Daddy, we love you. You may finally rest in peace now.