Thomas DeGeorge

Thomas A. DeGeorge, Sr., 89, of Erie, passed away peacefully Thursday, July 31, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. He was born March 26, 1936 in Erie, a son of the late Dominic and Rose (Sabetti) DeGeorge.

Tom was a graduate of Cathedral Preparatory School Class of 1955. He was a proud member of the National Guard and retired from American Sterilizer Company (AMSCO) where he was a union steward and Recording Secretary with the UAW.

Tom was a self-made man, a testament to the power of perseverance and self-education. He took pride in his craftsmanship, exemplified by the remarkable feat of remodeling his first house single-handedly, a true reflection of his initiative and resourcefulness. Throughout his life, he embodied the spirit of a provider, ensuring that his family was always cared for, supported, and protected.

Family was the cornerstone of Tom's existence; he held a deep, abiding love for his parents, wife, and immediate family, tending to their needs with compassion and dedication up until his last days. His selflessness and strength were a guiding light for those he loved, and his absence will be profoundly felt by everyone whose lives he touched.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Ena C. (Iacobucci) DeGeorge, whom he met at Firch's Bakery where they both worked in 1956. He was also preceded in death by two sons-in-law, John Polenta, MD and Alec Lamis, Ph.D. and numerous extended family members.

He is survived by his children, Roseann Polenta (Frank Ricca), Thomas A. DeGeorge, Jr. (Amy), and Renée M. Lamis; sister, Sandra Jones; five grandchildren, Frank Polenta (Lauren Cusimano), Christina Polenta (Eric Magenheimer), Peter, Alexander, and Nico Lamis; and three great-grandchildren, Grace, Luke, and Gianna. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family would like to thank the staff at Manchester Commons for the care, compassion, and support they provided him during the last three months of his life.

Friends are invited to call on Saturday, August 9th at the John R Orlando Funeral Home, Inc., 2122 Raspberry St., from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the prayer service there at 11:30 a.m. followed by a Funeral Mass at Saint George Church, 5145 Peach St., at Noon. Entombment will be in Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum.