Obituary of Thomas Felix Colombrito
Thomas Felix Colombrito, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and devoted community member, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2026, at the age of 94.
Thomas was born in Newark, New Jersey, to Samuel and Rosalie Colombrito and was raised in East Orange alongside his three siblings. After graduating high school, he continued his education in college before making the brave and selfless decision to serve his country during the Korean War. Thomas proudly served in the United States Army, and his dedication, courage, and patriotism will never be forgotten. After returning from the Army, Thomas joined the Gerber Baby Food Company, retiring after 40 years.
Thomas married his high school sweetheart, Colleen, and together they built a life rooted in love, commitment, and community. In 1966, they settled in the Rock Ridge Lake area of Denville, a place Thomas quickly came to cherish. He embraced the tight-knit community wholeheartedly and became deeply involved in local events. Whether volunteering at fundraisers, organizing teen dances, or attending lively lake parties, Thomas was always eager to lend a helping hand. Known as the life of the party, he was an entertainer at heart—a talented musician with a special gift for playing the accordion.
Alongside his dedication to the neighborhood, Thomas and Colleen were founding members of the St. Clare’s Harvest Festival, proudly serving as chairpersons for several years and leaving a lasting mark on the event and parish community.
In his free time, Thomas loved sports. A loyal New York Yankees and New York Giants fan, he found great joy in attending games and sharing in the excitement of a well-played game.
Above all else, Thomas treasured his family. He and Colleen raised their five children with unwavering love and devotion and were later overjoyed to welcome grandchildren and great-grandchildren into their lives. Thomas embodied the role of grandfather and great-grandfather, never missing an opportunity to spend time with those he loved. One of his greatest pleasures was attending family sporting events—whether swimming, baseball, soccer, or cheerleading—always cheering proudly from the stands. Tom also loved a good golf game, which he enjoyed playing with his wife, sons and grandson.
Thomas will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, infectious spirit, and deep love for his family and community. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the joyful memories he leaves behind. Thomas is survived by his children, Michele Colombrito (Mike), Thomas Colombrito, Brian Colombrito (Kelly), Michael Colombrito (Janet), his grandchildren, Jennifer Byrne (Brian), Megan Jarrell, Michael Colombrito (Alex), Katelyn, Ryan, and Thomas; his great grandchildren, Nicolas, Aniston, Parker, Cameron, and Vincent, as well as many friends and neighbors who will remember him fondly. We take comfort in knowing that he is now reunited with those who passed before him; his beloved wife, Colleen Mary Colombrito, his cherished daughter, Susan Mary, his granddaughter, Cassandra Colombrito, and his siblings, Ida Cardillo, Josephine Dukes, and Phil Colombrito.
If you would like to continue Thomas’ memory in your own way, please consider making a charitable contribution to the Alzheimer’s Association. Memorial Donations can be made via this link.
Hours of memorial visitation for Thomas will be held on Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 1 to 4 PM at Norman Dean Home for Services. Please share a memory, leave a condolence, or light a candle to continue to let Thomas’ light shine!
