Thomas G. Marquez

1961 - 2021

Thomas G. Marquez
February 18, 1961 - November 7, 2020
Los Angeles/Watsonville
Thomas Gerald Marquez, Costume Designer and performer, passed away on November 7, 2020, following a long battle with cancer. He leaves behind his siblings, Rose and Harold Heath, Pat and Mary Marquez Jr., Valerie and Louie Leon, as well as five nephews, four great-nephews, and two great-nieces.
Tommy was a well-known and well-loved costume designer and costumer in Los Angeles for television and film. Many actors and actresses were beautified by his dazzling and meticulous costume creations.
Tommy was born in Watsonville, California, to Nellie and Pascasio Marquez. In high school, Tommy displayed natural theatrical talent and was a gifted dancer. He went on to Cabrillo College, where he danced in many musicals at Cabrillo Stage and San Jose Civic Light Opera, both performing and perfecting the craft of theatrical costume design.
In the late 1980s, Tommy made the move to Los Angeles and worked on the television series The Wonder Years, which earned him his union card, becoming a member of IATSE 705, the union of Motion Picture Costumers. He worked on many television shows such as Party of Five, What I Like About You, Brothers and Sisters, Third Rock From the Sun, That 70s Show, That 80s Show, and more recently, American Horror Story and Crazy Ex-Girlfriend.
Although Tommy had a full career in Los Angeles, he always returned to his love of theatre, designing many unforgettable shows at such places as Theatre Under the Stars in Houston, the annual musical at the Hollywood Bowl, and local companies such as American Musical Theatre of San Jose and Cabrillo Stage.
Tommy was often seen performing and supporting gay pride events such as the annual Gay Evening in May at the Santa Cruz Civic and other West Coast celebrations. Tommy was married to his long-time partner, Garnet Murray, in November of 2008. Garnet passed away unexpectedly in 2010.
Tommy will be deeply missed by hundreds of friends and will always be remembered for his infectious laugh, deep professionalism, staggering creativity, and loyal friendships. A Zoom celebration of Tommy's life will take place on February 18 - his 60th Birthday. Register for the event here: https://bit.ly/2N7bcNO
In lieu of flowers, please support theatre and attend live theatrical events in his honor.


View the online memorial for Thomas G. Marquez