SHREWSBURY-Fr. Thomas M. Barry, 75, of Shrewsbury died Monday, December 14th in the Shrewsbury Nursing Home. He leaves his sister in law Christine Wilson of Charlton and several cousins. Two brothers, Henry J. “Butch” Barry, Jr. and John Barry and a sister, Sister Mary Barry, SSJ, predeceased him.
He was born in Worcester, the son of Henry J. Barry, Sr. and Mary C. (Grady) Barry. Father Barry was raised in St. Peter’s Parish and graduated from St. Peter’s High School. He attended Assumption College and graduated from St. John’s College Seminary in Brighton. Fr. Barry continued his education at St. John’s Theolagate and was ordained a priest in 1961 by Bishop Bernard Flanagan in St. Paul’s Cathedral. He served in various Pastorates, including St. Anne’s in Manchaug and St. Mary’s in Milford. From 1991 until 1998 Fr. Barry served as Chaplain to the Elderly with the Providence House locations in Worcester, Millbury and Southbridge. He later served the sick and elderly while at Mary, Queen of the Rosary Parish in Spencer. Fr. Barry continued as Facilitator for the Emmaus Priest Group for several years and maintained his bond as an associate to the sick and elderly resident Sisters of St. Joseph in Holyoke. His greatest joy as a priest was his service to elders, with whom he enjoyed a great affinity.
The funeral is Saturday, December 19th, with a Mass at 10:00 a.m. in St. Peter’s Church, 931 Main Street, Worcester. Most Reverend Robert J. McManus, will be the principal celebrant. Calling hours are Friday, December 18th from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. in St. Peter’s Church. A Vigil Service will be held at 7:00 p.m., with the Most Reverend George E. Rueger, officiating. Burial will be in St. John’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter’s Church, 929 Main Street, Worcester, MA 01610. O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue is directing arrangements.