It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Tom Birt, formerly of Ballynease, County Derry, Ireland, and later of Chicago, Illinois, USA, in his 87th year.
Tom emigrated to Chicago as a young man, where he met his beloved wife Sarah and built a life centered around family, hard work, and community. He and Sarah later returned to Ireland, where they owned and operated the Blue Lagoon bar and Tom established a butcher shop in Clady. They eventually returned to Chicago, where they founded The Six Penny Bit, which became a beloved gathering place for the Irish community.
Tom was a proud Irishman, a successful businessman, and a friend to many. He will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and the lasting impact he made on all who knew him.
Tom was predeceased by his wife Sarah, daughter Mary, grandchildren Tommy and Michelle, brothers John, Mickey, Arthur (Art), and William (Bill) James, and sister Margaret.
He is survived by his children Tommy, Joe, Ronnie, Christopher, Tina, Theresa, and Sally; his brother Henry; his sisters Brigid and Celine; 28 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and his extended family in Ireland and the United States.
May Tom rest in eternal peace.
Thomas Birt, 86, native of Bellaghy, Ballynease, Co. Derry, Ireland; beloved husband of the late Sarah Agnes Birt nee Greene; loving father Tina (Michael) Bonner, Tommy, Joe (Ann), Ronnie (Bernie), TC (Damian) Byrne, Sally (Ron) Veesenmeyer, and Chris (Dana), the late Mary (Wojtek) Wojowski; cherished grandfather of 28 and great grandfather of 22; Funeral Thursday 10:15 AM from Gibbons Family Funeral Home 5917 W. Irving Park Rd (1/2 Block East of Austin) to St Robert Bellarmine Church. Mass 11 AM. Interment Maryhill Cemetery. Visitation Wednesday 3-8 PM. For info 773-777-3944 or www.GFFH.com
Our family and friends at Di’s Den are deeply saddened to hear about Tom’s passing. Our deepest condolences to his family and friends at the Six Penny. May his memories and stories be a blessing to all that knew him.
RIP TOM
FROM ARRANMORE
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I’m so sorry for your loss. Chris, prayers to you and your family!
We r so saddened about this news rest in peace Uncle Tom from Michael Mary and family circle Magherafelt Co Derry N I
Over many years we have heard stories of your Mom & Dad, Tina, told with love, joy and pride. In many ways your Dad’s passing heralds the end of an era, but through you, your siblings and all the family the memories and stories will, I pray, carry you through this difficult time… and be told for years to come. RIP Tom ❤️
Condolences from Sheila and Robbie
RIP Tom Birt you’ll be missed so sorry to all the Birts he was a real gentleman
Bill & Teresa Doogan
My Condolences to the Birt family on the passing of Tom, may he rest in the eternal peace of the Lord! The Six Penny will not be the same without his smile and greeting.
Rip Tom a true legend, deepest sympathy to all the family and family circle 🙏🙏
RIP Tom a gentleman.Condolences to all the Birt community
Rest in Peace Tom.
Ray Lee