In Loving Memory of Tony Thomas

Hi, I'm Gina writing on behalf of the rehab team at Bridgewater Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing. I'm one of the very fortunate people who got to call Tony a friend, coworker, and most importantly, family. Tony was a dedicated Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant with our team for the better part of a decade. We are creating this page as opportunity to make a donation in Tony's memory.

The night of May 5th the world lost Tony in a tragic car accident while he was traveling to his children and grandchildren in Albany after a grocery trip. He approached a bridge after a curve in the road and was met with vehicles on both sides of the bridge that had collided into the guardrails, as well as people in/near the roadway. In efforts to avoid injuring another, he sacrificed himself. This comes as no surprise to anyone who knew Tony. He lived a life of silent service, helping family, friends, coworkers, his patients, acquaintances, and strangers every single day far beyond what he ever shared. I personally don't know many people who share a relationship with Tony who he has not helped in some way. He was a truly unique individual whose death has left an empty space in many peoples hearts.

Tony was a Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant and former mechanic. Tony could converse with and relate to anyone. He was a mentor to many and an inspiration to all. He listened, cared, and left you smiling or laughing after every exchange. He was passionate about many things, most importantly his faith, his family, friends, sports/athletics, food and nutrition, health, fitness, music, turner classic movies, history, news, and spreading love. Tony had a daughter, 2 sons, and several grandchildren who were his world. His love for them was his driving force. One of his very favorite things to do was watch his grandkids play sports. In discussion with Tony's family, we have all agreed this collection of funds would most please him to be donated to Guilderland Pop Warner, a youth sports organization dear to himself and family.

I ask you to join me in keeping Tony alive within all of us. Let his enthusiasm for life, love of people, ability to listen but never judge, his blinding positivity, and his fierce desire to help those in need inspire you to make the best decisions each day.