Thomas F. Gilroy

Thomas F. Gilroy, 76, of Niskayuna, passed away peacefully on May 17, 2025, at Albany Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family. Tom died just one day shy of his 77th birthday, following complications during a surgical procedure.

Born in Passaic, New Jersey, on May 18, 1948, Tom was the son of the late Thomas F. Gilroy Sr. and Marion K. (Lavinski) Gilroy. He was raised in Rutherford, NJ, where he attended parochial school and later graduated from the Rutherford City school district. In 1970, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University.

Shortly after graduation, Tom began his professional career in New York City with the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI), eventually transferring to the Meadowlands office in New Jersey. In January 1970, Tom met the love of his life, MariaTeresa Patierno. The two were married on June 19, 1971, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Schenectady. They began their married life in Rutherford before relocating to Ballston Lake in 1976.

After settling in Ballston Lake, Tom built a successful career in the personnel and recruitment industry. He served as president of Ethan Allen Personnel of Schenectady until 1990, after which he joined Ethan Allen Medical Search. It was there that Tom proudly referred to himself as a “headhunter,” helping connect medical professionals with meaningful career opportunities. His skill, dedication, and natural rapport with people led him to become president of the corporation—a position in which he thrived until his retirement in 2014.

Tom was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 54 years, MariaTeresa Gilroy; his children, Christopher Gilroy (Vicki) and Beth O’Malley (Martin); and his cherished granddaughters, Madi and Ella Gilroy, and Alexa O’Malley. He also leaves behind his loyal dog, Cappy, and many dear friends who will miss his warmth and humor.

Tom was predeceased by his parents, his in-laws Donald and Catherine Patierno, and his sister-in-law Cathy Patierno.

An avid golfer, Tom was a former member of the Ballston Spa Country Club and Van Schaick Island Country Club. In his later years, he enjoyed playing courses throughout the Capital Region with his golf buddies. He will be remembered for his remarkable vocabulary, quick wit, and gentle, loving spirit.

A man of deep faith, Tom was a communicant of St. Luke’s Roman Catholic Church in Schenectady. He appreciated and found great comfort in the pastoral care and friendship of Father Dominic Isopo, whose presence was a spiritual blessing to Tom and his family. Contributions may be made to the St. Luke’s Food Pantry in Tom’s memory.

The Gilroy family extends their heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated medical professionals of the Cardiopulmonary Intensive Care Unit at Albany Medical Center. Their kindness, compassion, and expert care during Tom’s final days brought great comfort to his loved ones and will never be forgotten.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Tom’s family on Thursday from 4 to 7 pm at Cannon funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave., Colonie. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday morning at 9:00 am at St. Luke’s Church, 1235 State Street, Schenectady. To leave a message of condolence for the family or to view a more complete obituary, visit www.CannonFuneral.com