In Loving Memory of Tom Reilley: Founder, Friend, and Guiding Light
It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of our beloved parade founder, Tom Reilley. For more than four decades, Tom was the heart and soul of our celebration—its visionary, its lifeblood, and its most passionate supporter. His legacy, etched in every banner, every beat of the drum, and every smile lining the parade route, will live on forever.
Tom was more than a founder; he was our motivator, our compass, and our friend. He brought an unmatched spirit of joy, tradition, and unity to this parade and our community as a whole. With boundless energy and an unwavering belief in the power of gathering people together in pride and purpose, Tom turned what began as a small local event into a cherished annual tradition that touched thousands.
Born and raised in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, Tom’s roots in the community ran deep. He was a proud graduate of Hilton Head High School and later attended the University of South Carolina, where he earned a degree in hospitality management. After college, Tom returned to Hilton Head Island and began working in the restaurant industry, eventually opening his first establishment, Reilley’s Grill and Bar, more than 35 years ago. This was the beginning of what would become a thriving restaurant empire, including The Crazy Crab, Aunt Chilada’s Easy Street Café, and Fishcamp.(Island Packet)
His dedication to the community extended beyond his business ventures. In the early 1980s, Tom recognized the need for a community event that would bring people together and celebrate the island’s rich culture and heritage. Drawing inspiration from his Irish heritage and the island’s vibrant community, he founded the Hilton Head Island St. Patrick’s Day Parade. What started as a modest gathering has since grown into one of the most anticipated events on the island, attracting over 25,000 attendees annually and earning recognition as one of the top 20 tourism events in the Southeast in 2002.(Island Packet)
Tom’s influence reached far beyond the parade. His commitment to Hilton Head Island’s tourism industry was recognized when he was honored with the John Curry Tourism Award by the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce. This prestigious award is given to individuals whose dedication has fundamentally shaped the region’s tourism industry, and Tom’s contributions undoubtedly left an indelible mark.(Island Packet)
Despite his success, Tom remained humble and deeply connected to the community he loved. He was known for his warm smile, infectious laughter, and genuine interest in the lives of those around him. Whether he was greeting parade-goers, supporting local charities, or simply sharing a meal with friends, Tom’s presence was a constant reminder of the power of community and the importance of giving back.
As we mourn the loss of Tom Reilley, we also celebrate his remarkable life and the lasting impact he had on Hilton Head Island. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations to come together in the spirit of unity, joy, and community.
A memorial service to honor Tom’s life will be held at [Location] on [Date], where friends, family, and community members will gather to share stories, offer condolences, and celebrate the life of a man who gave so much to others.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to [Charity/Organization], a cause that was close to Tom’s heart and one that continues his legacy of service and compassion.
As Hilton Head Island reflects on the life of Tom Reilley, we are reminded that even in the face of loss, the love and kindness shared by one individual can ripple through a community, leaving a lasting legacy that endures for generations to come.
Tom Reilley may no longer walk among us, but his spirit lives on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him. His life serves as a testament to the power of kindness, the importance of community, and the enduring impact of a life well-lived.
As the sun sets over Hilton Head Island, the community pauses to remember Tom Reilley—a man whose life was a beacon of light, whose kindness knew no bounds, and whose legacy will continue to inspire and uplift for years to come.
Rest in peace, Tom Reilley. Your work here is done, but your impact will never be forgotten.
