Thomas Lee Reilly

Thomas Lee Reilly, a decorated veteran, dedicated community leader, and devoted family man, passed away peacefully after a short battle with cancer. Known for his unwavering integrity and a life defined by service, Tom leaves behind a legacy of commitment to his country, his community, and those he held most dear.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Tom served as a War Correspondent during the Vietnam War. His bravery and dedication were recognized with numerous decorations, including the Bronze Star, two Purple Hearts, the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. His military service was a defining chapter of his life, leading to his induction into the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation Library’s Heroes Gallery in 2013.

Tom’s commitment to excellence began at Oglethorpe University, where he received the James Edward Oglethorpe Award for Merit and served on the Honor Council. This foundation of leadership carried into a successful professional career as a Business Analyst for Dun and Bradstreet and a respected Credit Manager. Even in retirement, Tom found joy in simple pursuits, often remarking that the "best job of his life" was working Barnes & Noble at Perimeter Mall.

A resident of the same three-mile area since 1953, Tom was instrumental in the founding of the City of Brookhaven. His passion for preservation and the outdoors was evident in his work with the Benton MacKaye Trail Association, where he led the group that finished the trail in Georgia, and his efforts as Co-Chairman of the Brookhaven Yes Parks Task Force. He served on seven different Boards of Directors, advocating for everything from zoning and land-use to nature conservation.

Beyond his professional and civic achievements, Tom was a man of diverse interests and a sharp wit. He was a published writer, an archer, and a student of the Shroud of Turin. He found beauty in the small gestures, famously giving his wife, Margie, a single red rose every month on the day of their wedding which was a tradition that spanned over 55 years.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Lee Reilly I and Naomi Audrey Perault, and his sister, Elaine Naomi Reilly.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Marjorie Eager Reilly; his children, Mark Reilly (Michelle Daniel Reilly) and Melissa Reilly (Richard Lossmann); his six grandchildren, Laken Reilly, Jackson Reilly, Shawn McLaughlin, Bryce Reheiser, Mason Lossmann, and Tucker Lossmann; and his three great-grandchildren, Hunter and Dreux McLaughlin and Alaska Reilly.

Tom will be remembered not only for his significant milestones and his devotion to Marjorie, but for a steadfast character that served as a compass for his entire family.

A service will be held at St. Martin in the Fields Episcopal Church in Brookhaven on May 30th, 2026, at 11:00 am. Inurnment will follow in the church garden, with a Celebration of Life to be held in Gable Hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.