Obituary of Thomas A. Clary, Jr. DMD

Thomas A. Clary Jr., DMD, 66, of Auburn, passed away Sunday, February 11, 2024 at his home.  Born in Auburn, Tom was the son of the late Louise (Magruder) and Thomas A. Clary, Sr., DDS.  He was a 1975 graduate of Auburn High School and continued his education at St. Bonaventure University where he received his Bachelor's Degree in 1979. He completed his dental degree at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine in 1983.

Tom joined his father's dental practice after graduating and practiced in Ithaca and Auburn during his 40 year career, continuing to take care of his patients and staff through November 2023. He was an avid golfer, and as a long time member and former President of Owasco Country Club, he was often seen walking his beloved dogs on the course. After a very successful swimming career at AHS and St. Bonaventure University, Tom gave back to the sport and molded hundreds of swimmers, coaching both the AHS Boys and Girls Varsity Swim Teams (23 seasons in total) and the YMCA Stingray Swim Team for many years.

He is survived by his two children, Adam (Jillian) Clary and their children Lucas, Logan, Emmalyn, and Michael and Robyn (Justin) Clary Patterson, Tom's Fiancee Sherry Kline and daughters, Cassi and Sarah Carroll, his siblings Marylou Chappell, James (Mary Jo) Clary, Kathleen (Steve) Clary-Cooke and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Tom was predeceased by his brother David Clary and best friend, Robert Greene.  

Tom touched the lives of everyone he met. He cared deeply for his family, his dogs, his friends, his staff, his patients, and his swimming family.  He enjoyed his time with "his boys" who are still swinging: Kevin Gleason, Joe DiMora, Jimmy Coppola, and Steve Morin. Tom was also a devoted SU lacrosse fanatic with his life-long friend Bob "Yob" Marks.  He will be missed greatly.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11am on Saturday, February 17 at St. Alphonsus Church with Father Louis Vasile officiating. There are no calling hours.

The omission of flowers is requested by the family. Those wishing to make donations in Tom's memory may be made to St. Alphonsus Food Pantry, Matthew House, and St. Bonaventure Swimming & Diving or Cross Country Teams. Please visit www.Langhamfuneralhomellc.com to leave a condolence for the family.