John Thomas Pollina, 69
Painter and noted drummer
John Thomas (“JT”) Pollina, age 69, passed away at his home May 10, 2019. John is survived by his wife of nearly three years, Annie; his mother, Kitty Pollina of Staten Island; and his younger sister, Linda D’Albero and her husband, Ray, of Toms River, N.J.
John was born October 8, 1949, in Brooklyn. Besides being the longtime owner and proprietor of Renaissance Painting & Paperhanging in Staten Island, he was a gifted and accomplished drummer. Although he performed with Toy Box, Rydim Squad, the Bitter Dreggs, the Retro Rockits, the Corleones, Orphan, the Jimmy Mack Band and many other acts, he’s best known for his 26 years as a member of the Blue Meanies, a popular Staten Island band that he co-founded in 1993. His fans, peers and band mates will forever remember his wit and grand presence behind the drum kit, not to mention his impeccable time keeping, creativity and hard-hitting style.
John was a devoted follower of the Mets and an avid fan of thoroughbred horse racing. He also was a history buff and could be counted on to provide information on a wide range of topics, including World War II and other significant events in United States history. John was respected and loved by all who knew him for his great intellect and amazing sense of humor. He will be missed by all.
There will be a memorial service 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, May 19, at Cherubini McInerney Funeral Home, 1289 Forest Ave., Staten Island, N.Y. 10302, (718) 442-9047, sifuneralhome.com
In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in John’s memory to the American Cancer
Service
Memorial Gathering
Cherubini McInerney Funeral Home
1289 Forest Avenue, Staten Island, New York 10302
Sunday, May 19, 2019
4:00pm - 7:00pm
Linda and Ray says
Annie,
We are so sorry for your loss.
Rest in peace my brother…we will meet again. ????
olga johansen says
Dearest Annie, Linda, Ray & Mrs. Kitty Pollina,
I am so sorry to hear of John’s passing. My heartfelt sympathy.
Sincerely, Olga Johansen
Ed DiGangi says
My dear friend JT, an amazing beautiful gentle giant who thought me so many things throughout our friendship. He was like an older brother to me. His witty humor was unsurpassed and had me in stitches often. He loved Abbot and Costello and enjoyed witty word play. John was also a talented lyricist and together we wrote many songs. Music truly was his life. I will mourn the loss of a friend but in time I will celebrate his continuance in his new journey in the cosmos and one with our creator.
JT, you will always be in my heart and I will never forget you and how you touched my life forever and always.
I love you!
Kevin Peterson says
John always was smiling…was a great Met fan like me…played excellent drums ..I will miss him,we will meet on the other side … writing this small piece …he’s smiling for us all from Heaven
Les More says
Please accept my heartfelt condolences at John’s passing. He was a loyal friend and a wonderful musician. When John laid down the beat…it stayed down. With John behind the kit you knew the drumming would be rock solid. I’ll always remember his wonderful sense of humour and his smile. Sorry that I can’t be there to pay respects in person but will keep John and his family and friends in my thoughts. All You Need is Love.
Roberta Trachtenberg says
I dated John back in our high school days ..he was a real gentleman…he bought me a beautiful necklace for Christmas..I remember that like it was yesterday..I remember when I met his mom. A lovely lady. So many good memories..he played at the colonial inn…MIDNIGHT HOUR…I WILL NEVER FORGET. RIP John..
Chelsea D’Albero says
Rest easy Uncle John you will be missed.
Simonetta and Ian says
We are so sorry for your loss . May he always rest in sweetest peace ????????
Simonetta and Ian says
Our deepest condolences Annie . May he always rest in sweetest peace ????????
James McDonnell says
Condolences to Annie and JT’s family. John was my musical soul mate and a cherished friend for more than 20 years. I cherished his wit, forthrightness and sense of humor. Together we made a great rhythm section for the various bands we played with over the past 2 decades. God Bless You JT and we pray that you will remain forever in the embrace of the Lord. JM
Karanikas Lori says
John Thomas is and will always be truly missed. May JT rest in the sweetest peace. My deepest condolences to Annie and Family on your tremendous loss. ????
Sincerely
Lori Karanikas
Lori Karanikas says
My deepest condolences to Annie and family. John was loved by so many….. May JT rest easy in the sweetest of peace.
Lori Karanikas says
My deepest condolences to Annie and family. I was deeply touched by all the heartfelt speeches and outpour of love at “JT’s” John’s memorial.
What a blessing to be loved so very much. JT is and will always be truly missed.
May John Thomas rest easy in the very sweetest of peace.
Gerard Fernandez says
John R.I.P u will be missed.May the Lord keep u wrapped up in the wing’s of an angel. God Bless ur friend Gerard Fernandez