THOMAS BELLEZZA

BELLEZZA--Dr. Thomas J., age 95, of Manhattan, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2025. He was the son of the late Salvatore and Rose Bellezza, and the beloved brother of Anna, Nicholas, Vincent, Salvatore Jr., and Joan. He is survived by his sister, Joan; his sister-in-law, Rose; and his nephews, Vincent, James, and Thomas II, each of whom cherished his wisdom and guidance. A graduate of Wagner College, where he majored in mathematics, Dr. Bellezza went on to earn his medical degree from the New York University School of Medicine in 1954. Upon completion of his studies, he interned at Bellevue Hospital. He completed his residency in internal medicine at St. Vincent's Hospital in Greenwich Village. After serving in the military in the Navy Medical Corps, he returned to St. Vincent's Hospital as an Attending in the Department of Medicine, where he focused on the subspecialty of cardiology. Scores of internal medicine residents and medical students had the privilege of learning from Dr. Bellezza, who regularly precepted teaching rounds at St. Vincent's Hospital. He was a highly respected physician on the medical staff and also managed his private practice until his retirement in 1992. Dr. Bellezza was known for his quick wit and wry sense of humor. A devoted gourmand, he was skilled in the culinary arts. He took great pleasure in sharing his creations with family and friends. He was also an ardent lover of opera, classical music, theatre, art, and literature, and found joy in the company of those who shared his passions. Having a passion for Italy and Italian culture, he immersed himself in Italian after retirement and became a fluent Italian speaker. This also led to his active involvement in NYU Casa Italiana as a student, donor, and, essentially, a family member of "The Casa" with his beloved lifelong partner and husband, John T. Jensen. Dr. Bellezza will be remembered for his kindness, integrity, and compassion toward his patients, friends, and family members. A memorial service will be held on November 15, 2025. For more details, contact: bellezzajensen@gmail.com