Thomas A. O'Reilly

Thomas Albert "T.A." O'Reilly, 79, of Great Falls, died of natural causes Thursday, March 1, at a local care center.

A memorial service is 11 a.m. Saturday at Croxford Funeral Home, followed by a celebration of his life, with time and place to be announced.

T.A. was born and raised in Great Falls to Jerry and Hortanse (Marion) O'Reilly on Dec. 28, 1932. He served in the Air National Guard with brothers Jerry and Edward after attending Great Falls High. T.A. graduated from the School of Architecture in Bozeman, and became a practicing architect in Montana, Wisconsin, New York and New Jersey, where he began his own practice. His contributions to architecture stand in tribute to him throughout these states. His sons, Dirk and Tim, became construction managers under their dad's guidance. Daughter Lisa obtained her bachelor of science degree in sociology at the College of Great Falls, and became a social counselor with the state of Montana. Son Patrick is an electrical engineer in Illinois.

Sailing was T.A.'s true calling. He was drawn to the sea with excitement and invigorating pleasure as he sailed throughout Long Island Sound off the shores of New York and Connecticut. As Skipper T.A., he would take serious measures while navigating the racecourse in order to finish well ahead of similar competing vessels. His classic 32-foot International 500, known as "Swiftsure," was constructed of wood and proved to be a steady ship, confident in the waters that she and he sailed. When not at sea on the Sound, T.A. and his modest crew, usually consisting of Dirk or Tim, would sail the waters of Lake Hopatcong in New Jersey aboard his Olympic Class sailboat, the "Star." This was another one of his classic wooden sailboats; its 23-foot length boosted more sail than ever should have been allowed. His crew, as well as T.A. himself, was tasked with the maintenance of these wooden consignments, with great pleasure, under the skipper's strict and consistent command.

The most beautiful thing T.A. shared with his family and friends was his artwork. His art, which was highly influenced by nature and Native American culture, showed his appreciation for beauty and heritage, which was captured so well in his beautiful pieces of art. T.A.'s carvings, sculptures and paintings marked his legacy, which demonstrated a truly wonderful lighter side. He shared his art and himself without vain; he gave with generosity and love. T.A's love, influence and contributions will be missed, but everlasting in heart and light.

T.A. is survived by his love, Diane; daughter Lisa; and sons Dirk (Vickie), Tim (Olga) and Patrick; sister Marion (Lefty); brothers Dick (LeAnn) and David (Marj); sisters-in-law Betty and Phyllis; grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nephews and nieces, who always remained dear and close to T.A. They remain pillars of the O'Reilly clan.

He joins his parents; his brothers, Jerry and Ed; his eldest son, Michael; and his nephew, Karst, who all passed away several years ago, in heaven with God.

Condolences may be posted online at www.croxfordfuneralhome.com and/or www.gftribune.com/obituaries.