Obituary of Thomas William DeGiobbi, River Ryan

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Tommy DeGiobbi ,a cherished father, husband, brother, grandfather, uncle, son and friend. He was surrounded by his loving family at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital on April 18, 2025.

Tommy was born on September 26, 1959 in New Waterford and grew up in 14 Yard. He was a devoted family man, whose joy for life was contagious. Tommy’s family was his life. He and his beloved wife Sharon liked to take long drives and explore the province together. He enjoyed doing the simple things with his grandkids such as picking blueberries, teaching them how to ride a bike, swimming, camping, building snow forts and sledding in the winter. He showed them an appreciation for animals with visits to the local horse barn. Tommy never missed a sports and school event for his grandkids. Tommy spent over 20 years working as a proud coal miner in various mines throughout Cape Breton. After the mines, Tommy and the fellas could be found conducting early morning meetings at the local coffee shop solving all the world’s problems. He was always there to give his buddy Dana a lift up the Hill and him and Ricky MacDonald stared across David Street at each other for 30 years. Tommy enjoyed a game of Tarabish with his good friend Mike White. Tommy touched a lot of hearts; he was our hero.

He leaves behind his loving wife Sharon (Lee) DeGiobbi. He was father to Cory (Laura), Evan (Kelly), Brent and Krista. He was Poppy to Johnathan, Rebecca, Isaac, Clara, Kassidy, Haven, Karlee, Jason, Katelynn and honorary grandchild Malory. He was brother to Shirley, Anthony (Margie), Michael (Joan), Brian, Tommy (Pearl), Susan (Charlie) and Karen (David).

He was predeceased by his parents Salvatore and Mary Cathrine DeGiobbi; brothers Gregory, Raymond and Johnny; sisters Caroline and Rose.

Cremation has taken place under the care and direction of V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, 380 Smith Street, New Waterford, where visitation will be held on Friday, April 25, 2025, from noon until the time of service at 2 pm in the chapel. Fr. Godwin Obike officiating. Reception to follow in the funeral home. Burial will be in Mount Carmel Cemetery after the reception.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff of the ICMU, ICU, ER Department and The Cancer Centre of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital for their compassion and professionalism. Your kindness and care will never be forgotten. In memory or in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cape Breton Cancer Centre or a charity of your choice. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca.