Tommy Berry Obituary, Death – We send our condolences to the friends and family of Tommy Berry, who passed away recently. The St George Illawarra Dragons pay their respects to Tommy Berry, who passed away last week.
Berry coached the Dragons to an under-23s premiership in 1987 and was a popular figure among players and supporters alike. Dragons head coach Shane Flanagan – who was a member of Berry’s under-23s premiership-winning squad in 1987 – spoke highly of his late coach.
“Tommy was a great man and had a big influence on my life and career,” Flanagan said. “I’m extremely thankful for the impact he had on me and memories that we shared. I am deeply saddened by his passing and pass on my very best wishes to his loved ones.”
The St George Illawarra Dragons send their condolences to Tommy’s family and friends. He was born in East St. Louis, Illinois to John Willis and Mae Berry. He grew up travelling with his parents between Mt. Vernon, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee and Florida; following the thoroughbred horse racing circuit; father being a jockey/horse trainer. His family established a home in Hialeah, Florida, a suburb outside of Miami, eventually moving to Ocala, Florida. He enlisted into the United States Air Force straight from High school.
He serviced 6 years in the United States Air Force with 2 tours in Vietnam. He very much enjoyed his military life. He found his way to Littleton, Colorado in the early 80’s; meeting Charlotte in 1984 and married in July of 1987.
He was the sweetest man on earth; loving his dogs, his home, his friends and his wife. He had a huge heart of gold to share with everyone! He was creative, artistic, and very articulate. His sense of humor was unique to say the least.
He enjoyed being a pilot, flying and building radio-controlled model airplanes, building cars (hot rods) from scratch winning many awards and trophies. He loved his friends and family deeply and always enjoyed being around people. He was the life of the party. Tom was described as a very “special” man; a man of many talents.
