Obituary of Thomas Joseph Landry

It is with broken hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of The Boss, on June 30, 2024 with his friend Gemma by his side. A proud resident of L’Arche Antigonish for twenty-four wonderful years, Tommy cherished his community and was deeply loved in return.

As proud as he was of L’Arche, he was equally as proud of his beloved Lower South River, where he was raised by his devoted parents, Nicholas and Theresa (MacDonnell) Landry. At home and in the community, Tommy was always encouraged and treated with acceptance - instilling the self-confidence that enabled Tommy to accomplish many incredible things.

Tommy’s life was one of resilience and perseverance, despite the many challenges he was dealt. Ever determined, Tommy learned to walk -  spending many joyful hours at the ballfield, the arena, and Bingo. He proudly joined the CACL, spending many years in the woodworking shop before finding his life’s passion in painting. Through L’Arche Hearts and Hands, Tommy’s flowers became a recognizable symbol of the beauty Tommy himself brought to the world.

Tommy was a master of non-verbal communication, seeing and feeling what he could not hear. Tommy watched and listened with his heart - sharing fellowship with a friend, enjoying music and dance, or watching cars pass on the South River Loop and students pass by L’Arche on their way to school.

Make no mistake, Tommy also was not afraid to let his observations be heard. He would let you know if your keys weren’t hung, if routine wasn’t being followed, or if his nieces and nephews were getting into mischief.

He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by those whose lives he touched.

Tommy is predeceased by his parents, Nicholas and Theresa Landry, brother Kevin, sisters Joan Marie and Florence Michelle (in infancy), grandparents George and Amelia Landry and Angus and Florence MacDonnell, as well as numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. He is survived by his L’Arche family, sisters Betty (George) Mills, Eileen (David) Heffernan, nephew Ian (Lacey), nieces Alicia (Steve), Stephanie (Jamie), Courtney (Adam), Andrea, Lacey (CJ), Nikki (Kieran), and Breanna. He will be dearly missed by his great nieces and nephews, Carter, Sadie, Noah, Ethan, Tessa and Evelyn, as well as his sister-in-law Tammy and her children, Kerrin, Keith and Kendra.

Visitation will be held from 2-4 and 6-8 pm on Friday, July 5 in MacIsaac Funeral Home, 61 Pleasant St., Antigonish. Funeral mass 11 am, Saturday, July 6 in St. Andrew’s Parish Church, Rev. Dennis Lamey presiding. Burial to follow in the parish cemetery. Donations in Tommy’s memory may be made to L’Arche Antigonish.

The family would like to thank Dr. Steeves, Dr. Odesanmi, MacIsaac Funeral Home, the compassionate L’Arche assistants and the many allied health professionals who helped to keep Tommy comfortable, healthy and happy throughout his years.

Until we meet again, we salute you, Tom.