Thomas "Tommy G." Giannelli

Thomas “Tommy G” Giannelli, 62, of Lemoyne, passed away Monday, March 9, 2026, surrounded by his family and loved ones.

Tom was a true artist who moved through life seeing the world with a different lens. Curious, imaginative, and endlessly creative, he loved gadgets, doodads, and experimentation, always exploring new ways to express himself and connect with others.

An extraordinary doodler, Tom left behind a large collection of intricate and whimsical drawings. He once shared his passion by teaching a doodling class at the Art Association of Harrisburg. His creativity extended well beyond pen and paper. Tom also painted vibrant works that explored shape, texture, and form, and he enjoyed composing his own GarageBand “masterpieces.” Most recently, he had begun teaching himself to play the harmonica, adding yet another outlet for his artistic spirit.

Tom graduated from Trinity High School in 1981 and went on to build a career in commercial equipment finance, working with Credential Leasing and most recently Fortis. Though successful in his profession, art and community were always close to his heart. In the 1980s he owned the Giannelli Art Gallery in Harrisburg and remained active in the local arts scene throughout his life. He was also co-founder of The Paper Sword, an influential Harrisburg-area poetry group that fostered local literary talent and held a special place in the Central PA creative community.

Tom’s curiosity and sense of fun never faded. In recent years, he launched BREATHE, an oxygen bar experience presented through XL Live in Harrisburg. Many evenings his daughter Ki could be found by his side, happily helping with the event.

He is survived by his family, Becky Giannelli of Camp Hill, Jazz House (Angela Cheadle) of Olathe, KS, Rayne House of Camp Hill, True House (Kali Davidson) of Camp Hill, Sol Giannelli (Kat Evans) of Hanover, Ki Giannelli of Camp Hill, John Giannelli (Maggie) of Camp Hill, Mary Ann Horwath (Ed) of Bel Air, MD, Don Giannelli (Katy) of Bel Air, MD, two grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Tom leaves behind a legacy of creativity, curiosity, and connection, along with a remarkable body of art that reflects the unique way he saw the world.

And for those who knew him well, one question will always bring a smile: How many turtles? Seven turtles. It's always seven.

A Celebration of Art and Life for Tom will be held on Sunday, April 19, 2026 from 1 to 4pm at XL Live, 801 South 10th Street, Harrisburg.

A  GoFundMe has been created to support Tom’s family with medical expenses and end-of-life arrangements. Contributions and shares are deeply appreciated.