Thomas Alfred Barry

Thomas A. Barry was born June 26, 1937 in Chicago, Illinois. He was a brother, father, grandfather, loving husband, coach and educator. He began his education career in the early 60's in Yuba City, California but found a home in Auburn, California at Placer High School. For three decades he helped shape the lives of all those who entered his classroom or played on his court. He eventually became the Principal at Del Oro High School and finished his career as a district level administrator.

Coach Barry was honored to be inducted into the Placer Athletic Hall of Fames inaugural class in 2015. In April of this year his 1972 basketball team, which was number one in Superior California, is being inducted into the Placer Athletic Hall of Fame as well. He loved the schools in the district, the students and most of all the wonderful people he had a chance to work with on a daily basis. He always kept abreast of what was going on in each of the schools and continued to attend his beloved Kendall Arnett Basketball Tournament each Winter Break at Placer High School.

Tom, unfortunately was diagnosed with cancer a number of years ago and despite valiant efforts lost his battle due to a complication from the cancer on Sunday, February 18, 2018.

He continued to travel and do the things he loved up until the end, most recently returning from a trip to Palm Springs. Although he was taken from us too soon, ,he led a wonderful life and was blessed with a loving family and close friendships with many amazing people. His storytelling, good nature and warm laugh will forever be remembered by all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving wife Clair Barry, two siblings Kathy Cox (Allen) and James Barry (Bonnie), five children : Dawn McCoy (Chris), Shawn Barry, Scott Barry (Kim), Kelly Barry, Chris Burger (Sheri),, eleven grandchildren, and four great grandchildren.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

Please sign the online guestbook at auburnjournal.com