Thomas E. Breen, 80, passed away Friday, November 23, 2012 at his home. A native of Nashville, he graduated from Fr. Ryan high School and Vanderbilt University. Was employed with the Group Dept. of Travelers Insurance for over 32 years, was manager of the Memphis office from 1965 until consolidations with Nashville until 1988. He has been an Agent / Broker with McDonnell Insurance, Inc. for over 20 years.
Married to Jean Eckhardt Breen for 56 years, father to Tom Breen Jr (Rebecca), Patricia A. Breen, Colleen Breen Flynn (Edgar), Mary Breen Smith (Dave), Philip E. Breen (Stefani); five grandchildren, Trey and Justin Breen, TJ, Amanda and John Flynn and two great-grandchildren. Other survivors, in Nashville include brothers Hugh M Breen (Mary), Rev. Joseph P. Breen, Rev. Philip M. Breen, sisters Ann B. Treadway, Mary Jo Beavin and Dorothy B. Williams (Wallace) of Birmingham and Sister-in-laws Betty Scott Breen and Barbara Kincaid Breen. Also 25 nieces and nephews and 35 great nieces and nephews. Pre-deceased by parents Paul Breen and Anna Marie Nenon, also brothers Paul Jr. and Lt. Col. William J. Breen.
He was a proud Army Veteran of the Korean War, serving 17 months in Korea 1953-1954. A member of Holy Rosary Catholic Church for 46+ years, his five children all graduated from the elementary school.
Tom was very active in Catholic organizations, past Presidents of Holy Rosary Parish Council, Holy Rosary School Board, East Memphis Catholic Club, Serra Club of Memphis and Catholic Charities Board Of Directors. He is an Honorary 50-plus year Life member of Knights Of Columbus, serving most positions of Council # 4312. Also served five years on Birthright Board Of Directors and 18 years on the St. Peter Picnic Committee. Was Picnic Chairman in 1981. Also Initial President of Balmoral Civic Association. He was very proud of being selected for President George H. W. Bush "1000 Points Of Life Community Award" and the "Bishop Carroll T. Dozier Service Award" in 1991. Also, the Holy Rosary Hall Of Fame Award in 2000.
Visitation services will be held at Holy Rosary Church on Sunday, 5:00 - 8:00 p.m., the funeral Mass on Monday, 11:00 a.m. also at Holy Rosary. Burial in Memorial Park. Any memorials can be sent to Holy Rosary Capital Campaign, Birthright Of Memphis, Serra Club Seminarian Fund, or the donor's favorite charity.
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