Thomas M. Ryle, Sr.

Click Here to Download a free funeral planning guide.

Celebrating the life of
Thomas M. Ryle, Sr.October 20, 1922 - March 09, 2010

Thomas Monroe Ryle, Sr.

SAVANNAH – Tommy Ryle, 87, passed away Tuesday, March 9, 2010, at Tara of Thunderbolt, after a long illness. Born in Macon, GA he spent the greater part of his life in Savannah.
Tommy was a graduate of Savannah High School where he excelled in many sports. He was a member of the 1942 Savannah High School football team that won the state championship. He still had the football from that game that he kept as a memento. He also played semi-pro baseball before he became a serious golfer.
He later became a class "A" golf professional and operated Bacon Park Golf Course for many years. He was recognized for his interest and help with the junior golfers. He was an influence not only with their golf but also with their character. Many of these golfers went on to become successful amateur golfers and successful businessmen.
He purchased the first golf carts in Savannah realizing what a phenomenon these golf carts would become.
After leaving Bacon Park he became the owner of LaVida Golf Course. He later sold it to the members.
After his retirement he lived on the river enjoying fishing and boating. He still enjoyed his golf and shot his age many times in the 70's and early 80's.
Mr. Ryle was a decorated veteran of the United States Navy having served in the Pacific Theatre during World War II, receiving two Air Medals. He served aboard the aircraft carriers USS Ticonderoga and USS Hancock. As a gunner aboard a torpedo plane he participated in the first carrier raid over Japan as well as action on Iwo Jima, Manila and Formosa.
Mr. Ryle was also a former Clerk of Recorders Court.
Surviving are his daughter Kathryn R. Swift of St. Simons Island, GA, his son Thomas Ryle, Jr. and his wife, Lynn, of Savannah, and five grandchildren, Chris, Lauren, Emily, Katie, and Maggie.
A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, March 12, 2010, at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel. The family will receive friends from 10:00 am until 11:00 am.
Remembrances may be made to the Victor B. Jenkins Memorial Club, 6408 Waters Ave., Savannah, GA 31406.

SHARE YOUR CONDOLENCES

Submissions protected by Kanshi.

GUEST BOOK

TOMMY, SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR LOSE.I KNOW YOU WILL MISS YOUR DAD, I MISS MINE. GOD BLESS AND TAKE CARE. SINCERELY GREG

- GREG AND JANIS BOWERS, SAVANNAH, GA

Tommy and Family,my deepest sympathy on the loss of your Dad.Tommy was a great guy with many friends.I can remember many happy times at the old 'Muny'.You were blessed to have him a long time.

- Tom Mahoney, Savannah, GA

Kathy, I am deeply sorry to hear about the passing of your father.. He was a great guy and a terrific fisherman. Harold mongin

- Harold Mongin, Savannah, GA

I love you grandaddy. You were my hero, friend and role model. Hopefully I can get to heaven before you hit the backside.

- Christopher D. Ryle, atlanta, GA

T VINE WAS A GREAT FRIEND AND WILL BE MISSED BY US BOTH GOD BE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY

- GEORGE AND PEGGY THOMPSON, SAVANNAH, GA

Condolences to the family.

- Barbara H. McCoy, Savannah, GA

My thoughts and prayers go out to all of the family.I'm going to miss you Mr.Ryle. I will always remember you coming in Lavida at lunch time wanting me to cook you breakfast unstead of lunch!You will be sadly missed!

- AnnaDeLoachHall, Savannah, GA