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Thomas Celsus Heavey, 85, beloved husband and father, went to be with his Savior on Feb. 2nd after a short illness. He was surrounded, in his home, by his devoted wife of 63 years, Emer Heavey, and his children.
Tom was born in Loughrea, County Galway, Ireland, to Thomas and Mary Heavey. After attending the prestigious 4-year Brown's Hotel Catering Program in London, UK he began his lifetime work in the restaurant business. A man of much charisma and drive, Tom moved to the United States and became a proud citizen of, "The greatest country in the world". In 1967 he opened The Red Blazer restaurant in Manhattan and subsequently opened two more establishments in NYC. In 1972 the Heavey family moved to Westchester County, NY where Tom founded the famous Blazer Pub, a family enterprise from which he and his wife retired in 1986. They eventually moved to Campobello, SC where they built their home on the Links O'Tryon golf course.
Tom married the love of his life in 1960. The inseparable couple have 4 children and 4 grandchildren. Philip Heavey (James Warnes), Alice DePaoli (John DePaoli), Deirdre Entrup (Garrett Entrup) and John Heavey (Christine Heavey). Anthony, Conor, Natasha and Thomas will remember their grandfather through many joyful memories. He was delighted to welcome his first great grandchild, Josie Rose DePaoli in January of this year.
Tom and Emer were accomplished golfers and enjoyed playing some of the most famous golf courses around the world.
Tom was the only brother of 7 siblings. He is predeceased by his sisters, Albertha Costello and Mary "Maureen" Griffin. He leaves behind Winifred Heavey, Sr. Mary Chrisina Heavey, Sr. Thomas Marie Heavey and Colette Heavey.
Tom lived an extraordinary life. His gift of storytelling was legendary as well as his remarkable work ethic. He made an impact in countless peoples lives.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, February 5, 2023 at Petty Funeral Home from 5:00-7:00pm. A funeral mass will be held at 3:30 Monday February 6, 2023 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Tryon, NC.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to Hospice Special Needs Fund. Regionalfoundation.com/ways-give/hospice or PO Box 2624 Spartanburg, SC 29304.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas Celsus Heavey, please visit our floral store.