Thomas Elia, age 77 of South Amboy, passed away Saturday February 15th at the Kindred Hospital in Rahway. Born in Brooklyn New York Thomas was a Sanitation Engineer for the New York State Dept. of Sanitation for 22 years and was a soccer coach for 13 years. Anyone that met Thomas knew how special he was to his family and friends. Our dad was a loving, caring man who would give you his shirt off his back if you needed it. There wasn't a person that my dad met that didn't like him, he touched everyone's heart that got to know him. Our dad will be truly missed by all his children, grandchildren and friends. Our dad was a hero to our family and will be remembered as such, he is legend that will never die.

Thomas is predeceased by his parents, his sister Marie Cirrincione, and his sons Joseph and Richard Elia. Surviving is his loving wife of 53 years Annette, and his brother Sonny Elia. Also Surviving are his children, Thomas, Dawn, Michael, Danielle, Darrin, Robert Elia and his 14 adoring grandchildren.

Funeral services will be Wednesday 7pm from the Carmen F. Spezzi Funeral Home 15 Cherry Lane, Parlin with a private cremation to follow.

Calling hours will be Wednesday from 4pm to 8pm. Letters of condolence, directions and completed arrangements can be found at www.spezzifuneralhome.com