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Current County Executive Laura Curran announced Gulotta’s death in a statement.
“In his career in government that spanned over four decades, Tom served our residents with distinction,” she said. “In recent years, I was lucky enough to become good friends with both Tom and his wife, Betsy. My heart goes out to Betsy and the whole Gulotta family for their loss.”
A resident of North Merrick, who was born in Oceanside, Gulotta was first elected as Nassau County Executive in 1987, serving until 2001. He was renowned for high approval ratings and his personal touch while on the campaign trail.
Longtime Congressman Pete King took to Twitter to mourn Gulotta's death.
“Just heard that Tom Gulotta has died," King tweeted. "Nassau County governmental and political icon. Proud to call him my longtime friend and colleague. Thoughts and prayers for Betsy and her family. Tom Gulotta R.I.P.”
Gulotta was the son of Josephine and Frank Gulotta, Sr., a former Nassau County District Attorney. He attended Malverne High School, serving as student president before attending Trinity College and law school at Columbia University.
“Sorry to hear of the passing of Tom Gulotta,” Assemblyman Ed Ra wrote. “Tom worked tirelessly on behalf of the public in his roles as an Assemblyman, Presiding Supervisor and as our County Executive. Thankful for his friendship and advice. My condolences to his wife Betsy and the entire Gulotta family.”
Nassau County Democratic Committee Chair Jay Jacobs praised Gulotta, who was a Republican, for his long career in politics.
“While of a different political party, and although not in agreement on most areas of policy, those who knew him, from both parties, could only say that he was a kind and gentle man who demonstrated class when things went his way and grace when they did not. As County Chairman I got to know Tom Gulotta as our former County Executive and I can say that he was always warm, gracious and welcoming.
“Democrats and Republicans can both learn from him. While he was loyal to his Party, he was more loyal to his country.”
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