The community of Canton, Ohio, is grieving the loss of Thomas M. Bernabei.
He was a former two-term mayor and a longtime public servant who built the city with dedication for decades.
Thomas died on December 11, 2025, and he left a legacy of humble service and care for those he served.
Friends and neighbours describe Thomas as a stable, calming presence; he was a leader who was supportive in every way.
Coworkers remember how he almost never missed community events, specifically the ones that support youth.
He often appeared quietly to cheer others on at the back of a room.
One community leader said that Thomas called her personally on two occasions, once she had COVID, and the other when she lost her husband.
Bernabei was a man who quietly showed compassion.
A graduate of Canton City Schools, he served in the army and went on to earn degrees from Brown University and The Ohio State University School of Law.
His career as a public servant was long, stretching from roles of prosecutor, law director, Stark County Commissioner, and eventually to mayor.
Burial and funeral services will take place on December 14th and 15th at North Lawn Cemetery.
As Canton mourns, they declare that his kindness will remain ingrained in the city’s framework for years to come.
