Thomas D. McCarthy

Thomas D. McCarthy, 76, passed away peacefully at home on December 27, 2024, after a long battle with declining health. Born on March 22, 1948, in Philadelphia, PA, Tom is survived by his loving wife, Sandra (Sandi) Lindenmuth McCarthy.

Tom was the son of the late Thomas McCarthy and Ruth Nicholson, and he is preceded in death by his sister, Gayle (McCarthy) Gioia. Tom graduated from Lower Moreland High School, class of 1966 where he served as class president. At Lower Moreland, Tom played on the football, basketball, and baseball teams, serving as quarterback and captain of the football team. He furthered his education at West Chester University, earning a B.A. in Music in 1970, where he showcased his musical talents playing both the piano and trumpet. Additionally, Tom served in the National Guard for six years.

Tom found his calling in education and gymnastics. He taught music in the Boyertown School District for five years before co-founding Berks Gymnastics Academy in 1975 with his wife Sandi. The Academy quickly grew into a highly respected and nationally recognized gymnastics academy under their leadership. His dedication and expertise earned him national and international recognition as he coached in 31 countries throughout the world. Notably, Tom coached the US Women’s Gymnastics Team at the 1983 World Championships in Budapest, Hungary, the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles, and the 1985 World Championships in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

Tom’s influence extended beyond coaching; he served on the International Technical Gymnastics Committee and lectured globally. In addition to his coaching accomplishments, he was deeply passionate about classical music, becoming a benefactor to the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. Tom and Sandi helped bring significant musical events to Reading, PA, raising thousands of dollars for philanthropic causes.

After retiring from operating Berks Gymnastics Academy, Tom and Sandi opened and operated Awards and More, an awards and stationery store located in West Reading, for several years.

Tom’s legacy includes not only his contributions to gymnastics and music, but also to the many lives he touched along the way. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The family will receive relatives and friends at Bean Funeral Home, 3825 Penn Ave, Sinking Spring PA 19608 on Saturday January 11th, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. with memorial service to follow at 1:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Co-County Wellness (429 Walnut Street, Reading, PA, 19601), or Curtis Institute of Music (1726 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19103).

Bean Funeral Home 3825 Penn Ave. Sinking Spring is in charge of arrangements and online condolences may be made at www.beanfuneralhomes.com

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