Obituary of Thomas E. Caprio
Thomas E. “Guy” Caprio passed away early Easter Sunday, one day before his 81st birthday, in New Rochelle, NY from Covid-19 complications. He is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Madeline (Goldman), and his two beloved children Guy (Paulina) and Kim (Shwan). His pride and joy were his grandchildren, Rowan, Dilan, Petra and Cameron. He is also survived by brothers Anthony “Chico” (Daryle) and Eugene, nephews and niece Anthony (Dina), Alexander (Lisa), Zonnie (Tom), his mother in law, Blanche Goldman, and sister in law Janice Baj.
Known as “Guy” to everyone, he was born in 1939 in Newark, NJ to Eugene and Sadie (Salvatoriello) Caprio and grew up in Nutley, NJ with brothers Eugene and Chico. Guy graduated from Nutley High School in 1957 and joined the US Army, followed by the Nutley Police Department. Guy was an avid weightlifter from early adolescence, bench pressing 420 pounds and setting the NJ State Police push up record (57 in 30 seconds) before being forced to leave recruit training with a blood clot. He followed his brother Chico to Tampa, FL in 1976, where he raised his family until moving to Atlanta, GA in 1989. He worked as a general contractor in FL, managing numerous construction projects until his retirement.
Guy was a loving husband and supportive father, who placed tremendous value on family and friendship. He adored his wife, Madeline, who was always by his side. Guy’s children valued him as a father, mentor and friend. He was always quick to provide support, advice and guidance throughout their lives. Guy’s grandchildren called him “Pa” and were the greatest joy in his life. Guy’s brother Chico was someone he cherished throughout his life, and Chico’s enduring support and success remained a great source of pride.
Guy’s Catholic faith was instilled in childhood as an altar boy, and he served as a valued and generous member of the many parishes he attended based on where he lived. His strong faith carried him through challenging times of illness, and he always prayed for all who needed help, putting others above himself. Guy recently donated a St. Jude statue to his Holy Family parish in New Rochelle, with the hope all will receive the blessings he did over the course of his life.
Guy leaves countless friends across the country, from childhood to those he met in recent years. He loved a good cigar, and enjoyed a smoke and catching up with friends telling story after story. He maintained strong relationships and was always present during times of need. When you were Guy’s friend, you were a friend for life. Guy was someone people looked up to, and now we’re comforted knowing he’s looking down on us.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a memorial gathering to honor Guy will be held at a later date. All arrangements are under the direction of the Clayton & McGirr Funeral Home, Freehold Township. Donations can be made in Guy’s memory to Holy Family Church at 83 Clove Road, New Rochelle, NY 10801. To leave condolence messages to the family and to check for future arrangements and other important updates, please visit www.claytonfuneralhome.com