Thomas Joseph DeSantis' Obituary
Thomas J. DeSantis, affectionately known as “Tommy,” died peacefully at his group home residence on Thanksgiving afternoon surrounded by his beloved house mates and staff. He lived a rich 64 years with decades of attentive and loving care from his family and OPWDD providers.
Tommy is survived by his Mother Anita (Moretti) DeSantis, 4 siblings; Maria DeSantis, Andrea DeSantis, Mario DeSantis (Deborah DeSantis) and Joanna DeSantis. Extended family members; Paula Petosa (Aunt), Cousins John Petosa (Jennifer), Tom Petosa, Maryann Moretti Blaney, Donald Moretti and second cousin Nick Blaney. Tommy was predeceased by his father, Mario DeSantis, grandparents, Joe and Lena Moretti, Thomas and Louise DeSantis, Floyd Petosa (Uncle) and Alfred Moretti (Uncle).
With heavy hearts, we recall how our Tommy was the soul and fabric of our family that wove us together in his simplicity. His limited cognitive skills did not impact his ability to deeply touch the hearts of all who came into his life. His caregivers instantly grew attached to his loving nature and were immediately captivated by his wonderful demeanor. While he could not express many of his needs in many words, his presence was powerful. All who felt his gentle spirit were pleasantly reminded of how his innocence brought joy and at other times, boisterous laughter.
Tommy loved thumbing through any sports magazine and was riveted by watching every sport, giving “High Fives” unselfishly and reveling in football tackle "pile-on's" the most. Home cooked meals were his favorite, especially meatballs and macaroni and all desserts. He liked listening to upbeat music. One of his hallmark mannerisms was his rocking/soothing motion and "singing" which instantly brought a smile to others who knew that Tommy was in his happy state. His affectionate phrases will always be fondly remembered: “My Buddy,” “Big Hug Daddy,” "more Ice Cream?" and “HAPPPEEE.” We never focused on the things he could not do and instead delighted in his lively interactions.
Tommy was incredibly spunky and resilient in his ability to overcome numerous and intense medical complications over his life. In particular, his ultimate achievement at age 42 was his tenacious healing from life-saving complex cervical spinal surgery fusion in 1999 in Boston, which provided him with an additional 22 years of life. We are forever grateful for Dr. Eric Woodard Neurosurgeon, Dr. Allen Crocker, Down syndrome specialist, Dr. Jose Florez, MD, Sharon Whitney PA and all the medical staff.
Tommy’s unconditional love inspired others to appreciate patience and connection. We are especially grateful for his team at Jamestreet Manor and Basile Rowe for their tender loving care of Tommy over many years. We would also like to thank multiple staff throughout OPWDD(Office for People With Developmental Disabilities) who truly loved and cared for Tommy like their own family member over the years. You will always be part of our extended family.
A private service will be held at THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME on Friday December 4, 2020 at 12:00 PM. Livestream will be available at tjpfuneralhome.com.
Donations in Tommy’s Memory to Arc of Onondaga Day Programs, 600 S. Wilbur Ave.,
Syracuse, NY 13204.
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