Rev. Thomas P. Conley

Thomas Conley Obituary

Rev. Thomas P. Conley, 85, formerly of Des Plaines and Chicago. Beloved brother of Joseph C. (Dorothy) Conley, James D. Conley, Eleanor C. (the late Edward) Nauman; cherished uncle and cousin of many. Rev. Conley was born June 21, 1921, ordained May 3, 1947 and died April 22, 2007 at Holy Family Villa, Palos Park, IL . He served as an associate at Sacred Heart Parish, Winetka for 16 years, Pastor of St. Pius X Parish in Stickney and most recently senior associate at St. Zachary Church, Des Plaines. He was also an associate at many other Chicagoland churches. Visitation Thursday, 9:30 a.m. until Mass 11 a.m. at St. Zachary Church, 567 W. Algonquin Rd., Des Plaines, IL. Interment All Saints Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials to the Priests' Retirement and Mutual Aid Association of the Archdiocese of Chicago, 4951 Harrison St., Hillside, IL 60162. Arrangements by Friedrichs Funeral Home, Mt. Prospect. For info: 847-255-7800 or www.FriedrichsFH.com.

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Published by Chicago Tribune on Apr. 24, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Conley

11 Entries

Romaine Campise

April 29, 2007

Fr. Conley was a very special and holy man. His love and faith was easy to feel. I knew him from St. Zachary's Parish. I was in Ireland and did not find out about his death until today, and I am so sorry I missed the Mass in his honor.

We played golf together for a charity event and had lots of fun.

He will be missed by many.

Bill Reid

April 29, 2007

I met Fr. Tom through his good friend Fr. Fred Schroeder, our senior associate. Fr. Tom was a terrific priest and a good friend. He modeled what a good priest does in bringing souls to Christ. I will miss him and rejoice in his birth into eternal life!

Jim Fox

April 26, 2007

Father Conley taught me to sing at Sacred Heart. We could see his frustration when we weren't perfect, but he never scolded or upbraided anyone. When we sang well, a beatific smile would transform his face, and that was praise enough for all of us.

Debbie Price

April 26, 2007

I had the pleasure of working with Fr. Conley at St. Terrence Parish in Alsip. He celebrated Mass with us on Sundays and Holy Days. Being the music director of the parish, Fr. Tom and I "clicked!" His warmth, compassion, humor and love of life made all of us at St. Terrence love him dearly. He especially loved our Teen Choir and Teen Church Band. The kids called him "Father Gramps," and he even came to one of our rehearsals and did his magic tricks. Two years ago, at our Easter Vigil, Fr. Tom sang the "Exsultet" and was so very happy that he was able to participate in our liturgy, and we were so happy to have him share all of his gifts -- his faith, his music, his love of life. God bless you Fr. Tom and may God hold you in the palm of his hand. We will miss you.

Richard Freeman

April 26, 2007

Father Conley taught me to sing when I was at Sacred Heart in the 1950's and I am forever indebted to him for his patience and perfection. I served Mass for him many times. I was so very pleased to see him at our reunion a few years ago. He was one of the most gentle people I have ever known and he will always be in my heart. Thank you Father!

Mari Connors

April 26, 2007

Father Conley was a great friend to my family at Sacred Heart Parish in Winnetka. I also remember his ability with a top, and a coin trick or two, and also his wonderful singing voice, which he shared with us at parties, and at Church. He was a great example of a priest whom we called "Father" and felt his love as a father. His kindness and gentle manner will be remembered. Mari Connors

Cathy Kudyba

April 25, 2007

To The Family of Father Conley,

Father Tom made a positive difference in my life. He consoled me after my Mother died in our home while on vacation visiting our family in 1995. Father Conley's gentle kindness, deep faith, helpful advice, and inspiration helped me handle one of the most difficult events of my life. He will never be forgotten for this. His faith, Christ-like example, and gentle nature I truly admire. Our sons served mass at St. Zachary's and loved him too! May He rest in eternal peace! We extend our deepest, sincerest sympathy to each of you.

Love and prayers,
Cathy & John Kudyba and Family

Alex and Marge Karpy And the Karpy Children

April 24, 2007

Fr. Tom has been a part of our lives for many years. Sr. Marie Paryse, my sister, introduced Fr. Tom to all of us and we spent many holidays and very many meals together. Our children grew up learning that Fr. Tom was very talented with a top. We will miss him dearly

Rev. John Kauzlarich

April 24, 2007

Tom, was a consumate priestly,gentleman who will be missed by all of us residing at Bishop Lyne House. He always added a touch of class. May he rest in the arms of the Lord whom he loved so much.

Shirley Lownds

April 24, 2007

We were so sorry to hear of your great loss. Father Conley was such an inspiration to all of us. We loved him and will miss him. Ministers of Care from St.Stephen's-Des Plaines.

Shirley Lownds

April 24, 2007

We were so sorry to hear of your great loss. Fr. Conley was an inspiration to all of us. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Ministers of Care-St. Stephen's Church-Des Plaines

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