Anthony D. "Tony" Brady

Anthony (Tony) D. Brady died at 5:30 a.m., June 13, 2010, at the Regency Nursing Center, Springfield, IL. Tony was born in London, England, July 7, 1939, the son of Patrick and Guiseppina Brady. Tony's father was killed in the first wave of the Dunkirk invasion. His brother William Allen and his mother preceded him in death.

Following his education in the London public school system, Tony discovered his natural proclivity for computers and spent almost his entire working career in the early pioneer stages of installing and managing main-frame computer systems. He worked for Cable and Wireless, Ford Motor company, Reuters Wire Service and the House of Commons. Mr. Brady concluded his working career as Computer Operations Manager for the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA).

Tony also served in the Royal Air Force, stationed in Germany for 3 years (1959-62). A long time friend described Tony as a person "who could talk to anyone, a well-known celebrity or a fellow cockney." Another friend from Spain commented on his tireless energy and wide array of interests. He started playing table tennis at age 13. He won several tournaments and medals in the U.K. He played for the Royal Air Force, and lastly for the Illinois Senior Olympics, winning several gold medals. He was also an avid soccer fan, player and coach.

Mr. Brady's later years were consumed with becoming an American citizen, all things American and learning the "American language." Often he said, "Two great countries divided by a common language." His citizenship party was attended by almost 100 local citizens. His knowledge of the U.S. Constitution and our political system was unusual and impressive. Tony was proud of his dual citizenship, England and America. He would often say, with pride, "An American and cockney." Finally, when he said "we," all knew he was speaking of the United States of America.

He was very proud of his two sons, Simon, a businessman living in Australia and Liam, a teacher, recently married and living in London. Often he spoke with a contagious enthusiasm regarding their travels, exploits, and successes. Puffing his chest, "fine young men, who could want more."

After retirement, Tony met, courted, and married "a lovely American Nurse," Genevieve Kelly on June 5, 1993. They lived happily for the remainder of Tony's life in Springfield, Illinois, with frequent trips to England, Ireland, Australia, and other destinations.

Tony was a lifetime Mason, a member of various service clubs and organizations. He was baptized a Roman Catholic and held to his Christian teachings.

Anthony D. "Tony" Brady is survived by his wife Genny (Kelly) Brady, sons, Simon and Liam, a niece, several nephews, grandnephews, cousins (in the U.S. and England) other relatives and a host of friends around the world.

Tony, at his request, will be cremated. A memorial gathering will begin with Masonic services conducted by Springfield Lodge #4 AF&AM at 4:00 pm Wednesday June 23, 2010 at the Bisch & Son Funeral Home 505 E. Allen Springfield, IL, with a time for visitation following the masonic service until 6:00 pm when a Christian Celebration of Life service will be conducted by Rev. Gene Bilotti, a dear friend for many years. Burial will be at a later date in Buffalo, N.Y.

In lieu of flowers, those that wish, may direct memorial contributions to the Illinois Senior Olympics program of the Springfield Park District or the Masonic Learning Center.

Please visit the online "Life Remembered Story" at www.bischandsonfuneralhome.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.