It is with deep grief that I share the news of the passing of poet
and author Piri Thomas. Through the years we developed a treasured
friendship and became family. He really is a beloved Tío.

Tío Piri, as I mourn your passing the hardest thing is accepting a
world without you in it. I simply cannot do that yet. I know you are
smiling down on me, your laughter and word music still ring in my ears
loud and clear. My deepest sympathy to the family, and to your beloved
Suzie.

My last visit with Suzie and Piri was about a year ago. I shared a
video clip with him for feedback on the progress of the American Boricua
documentary film. He cracked a thousand and one jokes (I’m gonna be in
your MOVIE? Wow kid, you’re alright! Let me change my shirt, I look
good, but I want to look GOOD you know–HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!) and teasing me
mercilessly about not being married yet. Then the usual loving
complaint that I didn’t visit often enough.

That was Tío Piri.

It is eerie, yet somehow perfectly fitting, that I asked him this question over two years ago:

How do you want the world to remember you?

His answer: As me. As Piri.

He then began another beautiful flow of words, life, and poetry.

It is your generous spirit and love that have kept the fire of American Boricua burning bright.

Descanse En Paz Tío Piri.