Former Canton Mayor Thomas Bernabei dedicated more than five decades of his life to faithfully serving the City of Canton and Stark County, the community he proudly called home. A lifelong Stark County resident and a 1964 graduate of Lehman High School, Tom went on to graduate from Brown University in 1968.
Mayor Bernabei first answered the call to serve his country as a member of the United States Army during the Vietnam War, rising to the rank of Captain. Following his military service, he earned his law degree from The Ohio State University College of Law in 1975, graduating at the top of his class.
He went on to serve the community in numerous leadership roles, including Assistant Prosecutor, Canton Assistant Law Director and Law Director, Stark County Commissioner, and Interim Director of the Stark Area Regional Transit Authority. In 2015, he was elected Mayor of Canton, a position he held for two terms. Congresswoman Emilia Sykes captured his legacy best when she said, “In every role, he brought fairness, humility, and a true commitment to helping his community.”
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mayor Bernabei was an avid fan of the Cleveland Guardians and The Ohio State Buckeyes, and he loved spending time with his beloved dog, Rosie. Among all of his achievements, he considered his family to be his greatest accomplishment. He supported them in all of their endeavors and consistently prioritized family time.
Mayor Bernabei was both a proud graduate and a strong advocate of the Canton City School District. He worked collaboratively with district superintendents to promote Canton City Schools and partnered with his daughter, Kimberly Kingsbury, CCSD Executive Director of Accountability and Federal Programs, to create opportunities for Canton City students to gain meaningful work experience with the City of Canton. He was a passionate supporter of the McKinley Bulldogs, especially during Rivalry Week, starting the annual Mayor’s Beat Massillon Parade and Pep Rally downtown. One of his most memorable moments came when he appeared in full football gear at the McKinley/Massillon Breakfast, delivering a motivational speech that ended with the words, “Put me in, coach!”
Mayor Bernabei believed deeply in the potential of the Canton City School District and demonstrated that belief by chairing the CCSD Levy Campaign in 2004. His leadership helped secure the passage of the levy, resulting in the construction of new school buildings and providing long-term financial stability for the district. His contributions continue to have a lasting and meaningful impact on Canton City Schools.
Mayor Tom Bernabei passed away on December 11, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service, integrity, and compassion. He made the City of Canton stronger, including the Canton City School District. Our district will forever be grateful for his leadership, his advocacy, and his unwavering belief in our students.
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