Tom Barry

Tom Barry, 75, passed away on February 6, 2026. Born on November 24, 1950, he grew up in Ridgewood, New Jersey, and later made his home in Milton, Delaware.

He is survived by his daughter, Stephanie, his son, Steven; their mother, Christine; his son-in-law, Felix, his daughter-in-law, Ruth; his sister, Mary Ann, and brother, Paul.

Tom created lifelong friends in every phase of his life and lit up any room with his lively conversations and humor. He touched many lives through his selfless character and his passion for working with people with disabilities.

Tom grew up in Ridgewood, New Jersey in a neighborhood filled with kids. He fondly looked back at his activity-packed childhood of swimming, sports, and games with these friends. He was a scholar student which carried him to college.

Tom began his career in Colorado at a children’s hospital where he knew he wanted to help others along with fighting for equitable care for all.

After several years out west, Tom moved back to New Jersey to join Spectrum for Living, a new non-profit whose sole goal was to enable individuals with disabilities to have the opportunity to attain their highest level of skills, purpose, and independence. Over the next 23 years, Tom built a lasting legacy of compassion and service at Spectrum rising to Vice President of Human Resources where he helped hire the next generation of employees to service this community. Tom always ensured Spectrum’s clients were treated with dignity, and he helped run numerous charity events for the organization. Some highlights included a Jets vs Giants basketball game and having Frankie Valli visit.

During this time, Tom also became a father to two children, Stephanie and Steven, whom he loved more than anything. He was an outstanding father and role model to them. He was constantly involved in their lives and even coached many of their sports teams.

In 2005, Tom relocated with his family to Milton, Delaware. His versatility was on display as he became the first athletic director at Eagle's Nest Christian Academy and created the middle school's very first sports program. Eventually, Tom went back to his roots as he served Delawareans with disabilities as a caseworker for the State and Easter Seals. After a long fulfilling career, Tom retired in 2012.

In retirement, Tom enjoyed many hobbies including fitness as he became an active walker in the town of Milton. He averaged over 3 miles a day for 10+ years! Additionally, Tom was a major sports fanatic as he cheered for his New York Yankees, Giants, Rangers, and Knicks.

In closing, Tom impacted countless lives and built deep lifelong relationships everywhere he went. He will be tremendously missed by all.

A visitation will be held at Short Funeral Services, 416 Federal Street, Milton, Delaware on February 21, 2026, at 11:30 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent to: Spectrum for Living Development, Inc., 210 Rivervale Road, River Vale, NJ 07675. Please include “In Memory of Tom Barry” with your donation.