Thomas Michael Gillaspy

Thomas, the son of Laverne Gillaspy and Eleanor Weinrich-Gillaspy, was born on February 2, 1970, in Willows, California. He graduated from Willows High School and studied at California State University, Chico, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology in 1994. Later that year, he moved to Sacramento to continue his studies and complete graduate work in history and humanities at California State University, Sacramento.

Shortly after moving to Sacramento, Thomas met his wife, Marcene, whom he married in 1997. Thomas and Marcene settled in Elk Grove, California, and in 2001, they welcomed a daughter, Marissa.

After working briefly for the California State Capitol Museum, Thomas found work settling state compensation claims for ill and injured workers. In his job, Tom was known for his quick wit, his keen negotiating skills, and his empathy for those who sought his counsel and assistance. Outside of work, he enjoyed spending time with family, as a devoted husband and father. But Thomas never lost his passion for history and art. He became an accomplished photographer of urban landscapes. In recent years, his work has gained national attention, and his photographs have been featured in over one-hundred books and magazines.

Thomas was predeceased by his father, Laverne Gillaspy. He is survived by his wife, Marcene Gandolfo-Gillaspy, daughter, Marissa Gandolfo-Gillaspy, mother, Eleanor Weinrich-Gillaspy, brother, John Gillaspy, sister-in-law, Maya Kavcsak-Gillaspy, and nephews, Christopher and Liam Gillaspy.

A celebration of Thomas’ life and work will be held in the spring.