Thomas “Tom” Vivo was born on May 12, 1953, in Utuado, Puerto Rico, to the late Jorge and Georgina Vivo. At seven years old, he and his family moved to New York City, where they made their home in The Bronx. Tom graduated from William Howard Taft High School in 1972 — a proud Bronx kid through and through.

Tom built a long and dedicated career as a Banking Officer at Bank Leumi, where he worked for more than 40 years before retiring in December 2016. His colleagues remember him not only for his professionalism, but for his kindness, humor, and steady presence.

In 1978, Tom married the love of his life, Yvonne, and together they built a home filled with laughter, music, and faith. Their greatest joy was their daughter, Bethany, and later, their son-in-law, Roland Pelliccia. Tom’s proudest role was as a husband and father, and he cherished every moment with his family.

Tom was deeply proud of his family and the Vivo name. Because the Vivo family is a small group, he was fascinated with tracing connections and often wondered if there were more Vivos out in the world. That same spirit of curiosity and loyalty extended beyond family — Tom loved reconnecting with childhood friends and former coworkers, keeping those bonds alive across the years.

A man of deep faith, Tom dedicated his life to Jehovah in 1974 and was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. He served for many years as an elder in the congregation, encouraging and strengthening others with his warmth and conviction. He firmly believed in the hope of God’s Kingdom as the only true solution for mankind.

Tom’s big smile, a quick wit, and a playful sense of humor showed up in random funny text messages and lighthearted jokes. He loved music and dancing — from Motown and The Temptations to salsa rhythms that got him moving.

He was also the kind of man you could always count on. Friends and family knew that if you needed a hand moving, help fixing your car or computer, or someone to change a flat tire, Tom was there without hesitation. He also loved the simple pleasures — fishing, baking bread, and, most of all, eating it fresh out of the oven. His kitchen creations and his willingness to show up for others were just more ways he expressed his love.

He will be lovingly remembered by his siblings — Miriam Vivo, Aida Vivo, Margie (Vivo) Soto, and George Vivo; his nieces and nephews — Jonathan Lassen, Michael Lassen, and Maritza Pallone; his great-nieces and great-nephews — Ashley, Dylan (in loving memory), Olivia, Chase, Angelina, and Matthew; and, through marriage, Zane Hazim, and Sasha Hazim.

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