Thomas James Tartaglia

Thomas James Tartaglia, age 82, of Wilmington, DE, formerly of Southwest Philadelphia, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2026.

Thomas was the loving husband of 51 years to Rena Tartaglia; beloved father of AnnaMarie Tartaglia and Dina Diehm (Paul); devoted grandfather of GinaMarie Matzulis, Dante Christopher DeAngelis, and Alexa Elizabeth Diehm; cherished great-grandfather of Lorenzo Ricardo Tovar; and a longtime father figure to cousin Michael Salerno. He will be dearly missed by his many nieces, nephews, in-laws, cousins, friends and extended family.

Thomas was born in Philadelphia, PA on August 1, 1944 to the late Anna (DeSanto) and Thomas Tartaglia. He graduated from West Catholic High School and spent his career of 30 years working for General Electric holding various positions such as wireman, shop steward and an active member of the union. Thomas was a lifelong musician and played the saxophone for various bands but most remembered with the cover band The Del-Vikings playing their hit-song “Come Go With Me.” He cherished the summer vacations that he spent with his children, grandchildren and cousins in Wildwood, NJ. Thomas was also an avid classic car enthusiast and a mechanic by nature. He loved to rebuild cars, especially his father’s 1962 Chevy and cared for each one with pride. But nothing brought him more joy than his family, eating homemade Italian food, spending time with his children and grandchildren and playing with his dog Bella. His infectious laugh and famous sayings will always carry with those who loved him dearly. He will forever be missed by his wife and caretaker of 51 years, his two daughters who were the prides of his life and his grandkids and most recently great grandson who he loved endlessly.

A visitation will be held on Monday, September 28th from 10:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. at St. John the Beloved Catholic Church, 907 Milltown Road, Wilmington, DE 19808. Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:00 A.M. Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, Yeadon, PA. In lieu of flowers, and in support of his love for animals, the family suggests contributions to an animal shelter or an animal rescue of your choice.