Tommy Pennisi's Obituary
George Thomas (Tommy) Pennisi was born in Gainesville, FL on May 8, 1935, and died peacefully on December 12, 2024 at Haven Hospice in Gainesville, FL. He is survived by daughter Emily Pennisi Cheves, grandchildren Courtney Cheves and Justin Cheves; brother John Pennisi (Catherine) and sister Lenora Pennisi McMullen along with nieces and nephews.
Tommy was a veteran of the United States Army where he served as a cook.
He was a member of University City Church of Christ.
Tommy is best known for his long career at Louis’ Lunch, one of the oldest eateries in Gainesville, serving the most delicious hamburgers around! He and his brother, Freddie, began working there as children. As the years progressed, familiar faces behind the counter were Louis, Freddie, Tommy, Eugene and Emily. After Freddie’s untimely death in 1993, Tommy eventually purchased and began managing the business until it closed in 2010.
He remained active in keeping classmates of GHS current in the news of each other. Many looked forward to his comments in the Voice of the People in the Gainesville Sun. We have lost a good voice of the history of Gainesville.
Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at University City Church of Christ. Interment will follow at Forest Meadows East Cemetery. The family will receive friends Monday, December 16, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Williams-Thomas Funeral Home Downtown, 404 N. Main St.
What’s your fondest memory of Tommy?
What’s a lesson you learned from Tommy?
Share a story where Tommy's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Tommy you’ll never forget.
How did Tommy make you smile?
