Thomas D. Barrera

Thomas Barrera, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 16, 2025 at the age of 75 in Lorida, Florida, where he made his home in recent years. He was born in Amsterdam, New York on January 31st 1950 and was the son of the late Carlos Barrera and Sylvia Politano. Tom grew up in the Albany area and attended Colonie High School.

Tom was a true free spirit whose life was filled with creativity. He had an endless passion to achieve whatever he set his mind to. Tom was an innovator, ahead of his time. He was an entrepreneur, photographer, videographer, inventor, writer, salesman and a builder. Tom was also an avid gardener who mastered the art of hydroponic gardening and was also ordained as a minister.

As a young man Tom spread his wings and moved to Hawaii and later Tonga, where he lived for several years. While there he mastered the sport of hang-gliding. He also loved to ski and skateboard. He also loved music and was in a band in his younger years. While in Hawaii he purchased his beloved Macaw “Scarlet” who was always by his side wherever life would take them. Tom was a cat lover and loved his two cats Sassy & Paris.

Tom was a man of faith in God and Jesus Christ and recently became an author writing, “The Book of T”, a three part series of books proving the existence of God.”

In his later years, Tom found strength and peace in his growing spirituality, a journey that brought him comfort and deeper meaning of God. It was very important for him to lead others to God, especially his family. He often led us to prayer and God in many ways.

He is survived by his loving children, Thomas Barrera Jr. (Emily) and Tammy Sbardella (Joseph), and his grandchildren: Matthew and Kendall Barrera, and Angelo and Anthony Sbardella, all of whom brought great pride and joy to his life. He will also be missed by his nieces, nephews and cousins.Thomas is predeceased by his great-granddaughter Gianna Raelyn Barrera. Thomas also leaves behind his devoted siblings: Carla Caisse (Mike), Rita Brink (Lori), Susan Mako (Laszlo), Robert Barrera (Mary), and Linda Koenig. His warmth, wit, unique spirit and faith in God will be remembered fondly by all who knew and loved him.

Tom’s legacy is one of individuality, imagination, love and faith. He will be deeply missed.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, October 31, 2025 from 930am-1130am at New Comer Cremations & Funerals ,343 New Karner Rd, Colonie, NY 12205.

A Catholic service officiated by Father Joe Cebrula will begin at 1130am at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery.

To leave a special message for family please visit the guest book above.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Florida Exotic Bird Sanctuary Inc, at 8933 Casper Avenue, Hudson, Florida 34667.

The ( NO ) BIG BANG THEORY