Thomas Hugh Cory

Thomas Hugh Cory, a proud veteran, devoted family man, and active member of his community, passed away on February 1, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on June 8, 1931, in Sioux City, Iowa. Thomas was the son of Sylva Mae Busroe and William Victor Cory. In 1939, the family moved to Olympia, Washington, where Tom developed a deep love for the outdoors, enjoying fishing and hunting in the woods surrounding Mt. Rainier.

Tom enlisted in the United States Air Force on November 8, 1951, in Seattle, Washing, and served his country honorably for 20 years, earning distinction as a double war veteran during both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Tom was incredibly proud of his service in the Air Force, and even after retiring, he continued to carry a deep sense of honor and pride for the time he spent in service to his country. 

Tom was actively involved in the Air Force Base Chapel, where he served as an usher at all duty stations. He was also a proud member of the Hammerton Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite, and Omar Shriners. As a Shriner, he raised thousands of dollars for Shriners’ Hospitals for Children and had the privilege of escorting many children to the Greenville Shriners’ Hospital. 

In Tacoma, Washington, Tom serves as the first Girl Scout assistant for his daughter’s troop, and in recognition of his service, he was distinguished as an honorary Girl Scout. 

An avid golfer, Tom achieved two hole-in-ones during his lifetime, a testament to his love for the game and commitment to the sport. 

Tom was preceded in death by his late wife of 60 years, Margie Richardson Cory; his only daughter, Beth Cory Rivers (Charlie); two grandchildren: Caroline Elizabeth Rhode and James Gary Rhode III (Virginia); three step-grandchildren: Ford Rivers (Blair), West Rivers (Madison), Caroline Gencdur (Ozgur); and one step-great-grandchild, Eliza Rivers. 

His memory will live on through his family and the countless lives he touched with his generosity, kindness, and service.

Memorial donations in Tom’s name may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607.

The family will receive friends Monday from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm in J. Henry Stuhr Inc., Downtown Chapel, 232 Calhoun Street.