Thomas J. Begley, 83, died Feb. 1, 2010, at his home.
He was born in Corbin, Ky., and lived in Vero Beach for 46 years, coming from his birthplace. He served in the Army, enlisting at 17. He earned three Eastern Operations Medals, the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.
After college, he was an instructor in Link Synthetic Trainers at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. He was an agent for the state ABCT and an instructor/pilot for Erdle and Wilder Aircraft.
Before retiring, he worked for the U.S. Postal Service.
He was a Town Council member in Indian River Shores, involved in the citrus industry and commander of the local Veterans of Foreign Wars chapter.
He was a life member of the American Legion and a Presbyterian.
Survivors include his daughter, Cheryl Barkwell of Vero Beach; son, Dan W. Smith of Vero Beach; sister, Mary Gilliam of Corbin; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
Memorial contributions may be made to VNA Hospice of Vero Beach, 1110 35th Lane, Vero Beach, FL 32960.
A family service will be in Corbin. Arrangements are by Cox-Gifford-Seawinds Funeral Home and Crematory, Vero Beach. A guest book may be signed at seawindsfh.com/obit.php.