Thomas Tibaldi

Thomas Tibaldi, age 96, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset. A man whose life was defined by faith, hard work, and devotion to family, Thomas lived with quiet strength, purpose, and integrity.

Born and raised in Plainfield, New Jersey, Thomas was proud of his roots and the values he carried with him throughout his life. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving his country honorably during the Korean War. His service reflected a deep sense of duty that would remain a guiding principle in all that he did.

Faith played an important role in Thomas's life from an early age. As a child, he attended St. Bernard's Roman Catholic Church in Plainfield, where he received his sacraments. It was there that the first chapter of a lasting love story quietly began. He often noticed a young woman he would see regularly at church, though they had not yet formally met. Fate later brought them together at a wedding they both attended, where he was introduced to Josephine Petruccelli. Their relationship grew into a devoted marriage, and together they built a loving family and shared a life grounded in faith and commitment.

Thomas dedicated 47 years of his life to his work as a plumber with Local 24, a career he embraced with pride and diligence. Work was never simply a responsibility to him, but a source of fulfillment and identity. Even after retiring from his full-time career, he remained active, spending the next 21 years working in the maintenance department at the Flemington Department Store. That chapter of his life was especially meaningful, as it allowed him the pleasure of working at the same store as his daughter.

Those who knew Thomas understood that working was one of the great joys of his life. He found satisfaction in fixing things and solving problems, always eager to put his skills to use. At home, he took pride in maintaining his property, tending to his garden, cutting the grass, and caring for his yard. He was also a winemaker, producing wine at home with patience and care.

Thomas was a man of deep intellect and curiosity. He was an avid reader with a particular interest in history, wars, politics, and nonfiction. Exceptionally intelligent and self-sufficient, he was known for his remarkable memory and thoughtful understanding of the world around him.

He also possessed a gentle artistic side. Thomas played the harmonica and the guitar, and his children fondly remember him playing "You Are My Sunshine," a simple song that reflected the warmth and love he brought into their lives.

Faith remained central to Thomas throughout his life. He prayed the rosary every day, often more than once, and held a special devotion to Padre Pio. He was a devoted member of Saint Ann Roman Catholic Church in Raritan, New Jersey, and his faith quietly guided his daily life.

As a husband and father, Thomas was steadfast and devoted. He shared a loving marriage with his wife, Josephine, and as a father, he led by example, offering unconditional love, quiet guidance, and steady support throughout his children's lives.

Thomas was predeceased by his brother, Daniel Tibaldi, who passed away in 1999.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Josephine Tibaldi; his daughters Patricia, Tommarie, and son-in-law Thomas.

Thomas Tibaldi will be remembered as a man of faith, dedication, and humility. His life was marked by service, hard work, and devotion to those he loved. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, integrity, and quiet strength that will be carried on by his family for generations to come.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (link) or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (link).

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OUR DAD

What we would give to hear the simple whisper of your voice, the comforting touch of your hand, the loving gesture in your smile…. but Our Lord and Savior called you home. The emptiness in our hearts is immeasurable, but the love you gave us through the years will once again make us whole as we cherish all the moments that made you, our Dad.

As children we remember the piggybacks up the stairs when we were too tired to climb them, the cool Dad that played with us in the snow and the Father that disciplined us and taught us right from wrong. Those lessons will carry through in our lifetime.

We mourn your passing and loss but celebrate your life and selflessness. Your love and devotion to God and family are a testament to the man and Father you are. Let the scars of your passing be healed in knowing we will all be together again someday. Until then, we love you and we thank you for the Blessing of being our Dad.

Tommarie Tibaldi