Thomas Cignarella

Tom lived an extraordinary life marked by hard work, determination, dedication, service, faith and an unwavering love for his family. To his family, he was nothing short of Superman - strong, dependable, capable of overcoming any challenge, and always there to protect and care for the people he loved.

Tom was a man of deep abiding faith, never missing 9 am mass on Sundays. He was humble in his beliefs.

A gifted musician at heart, Tom was actively pursing his musical dreams when interrupted by his service in the US Army. He proudly served his country as a veteran, carrying the values of discipline, commitment, resilience and faith with him throughout the rest of his life.

After his military service, Tom began his remarkable career in the supermarket industry. He began as a stock boy. Through years of dedication and perseverance, he rose to become president of produce.

Retirement at the age of 68, wasn’t enough to slow him down. He simply wasn’t finished yet. After one year, he established his own consulting business, TAC, an acronym for his initials. He continued sharing his knowledge and experience for two more decades, before officially retiring at the remarkable age of 88.

When he wasn’t working Tom loved spending time on the golf course and cheering on his favorite New York teams - the Knicks, Mets, Giants and Rangers. A true New Yorker at heart, he was especially thrilled to see his beloved Knicks win the 2026 NBA Championship, their first in 53 years.

He shared 71 wonderful years with his wife Nancy, the love of his life. Together, they built a life filled with love, family and countless cherished memories. Their backyard pool became a gathering place where family came together - a source of endless summer entertainment and the setting for numerous birthday celebrations. Tom was also famous for the healthy spreads he prepared and proudly shared at family gatherings. Watermelon, cucumbers, olives and fresh bread were always plentiful. His gatherings represented him perfectly, generous, practical, health conscious and happiest when surrounded by those he loved.

Tom was the devoted father of three children; Grace and her husband, Bennie, Thomas and his wife, Donna and Michele and her husband, Sal. He was also the proud grandfather of nine grandchildren; Michael (wife Lauren), Jackie (husband Nick), Stephen, Christoper, Nicholas (wife Nicole), Jessie (husband Ryan), Stephanie, Melissa (husband Micah), and Michael. He had six great-grandchildren; Michael, Christian, Tyler, Ryleigh, Mikah and Sofia. Each of the kids held a special place in his heart.

A true patriarch, Tom was a man of strength, wisdom, generosity and unwavering devotion to those he loved. He was someone his family could always count on. His legacy lives on not only through his military service and remarkable accomplishments but also through the family he built, the values he instilled and the countless lives he touched.

And for those who knew and loved him his familiar parting words “Be Good” will forever remain a treasured reminder of the man he was.

Tom will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered and forever cherished.

Visitation will be held Sunday from 4:00PM - 8:00PM at Higgins Funeral Home New City, NY. Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday 10:00am St. Augustine's Church New City, NY. Interment to follow at St. Anthony Cemetery Nanuet, NY

In Lieu of Flowers donations to Joe Raso Hospice 11 Stokum Lane New City, NY can be made in Thomas's name.