Mr. Thomas D. McCarthy, a 1966 graduate of Lower Moreland High School, a former U.S. Women’s Gymnastics Team head coach, and co-founder of the Berks Gymnastics Academy, passed away on Friday, December 27. He was 76 years old.

During his time at Lower Moreland High, Mr. McCarthy served as class president and 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. He also served in the National Guard for six years, his obituary said.

Mr. McCarthy taught music in the Boyertown School District for five years before co-founding Berks Gymnastics Academy in 1975 with his wife, Sandi.

He went on to coach 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.

“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,” his obituary said. “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.”

The family will receive relatives and friends at Bean Funeral Home, 3825 Penn Avenue, Sinking Spring on Saturday, January 11 at 12:30pm with a memorial service to follow at 1:30pm. 

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