Thomas C. Bearden

Thomas (Tom) Bearden was born in Chicago on June 21, 1942 and called it home for most of his life. A graduate of De La Salle High School and Loyola University, he spent his career in secondary education. After teaching early in his work, he became a long-time principal at both Josephinum High School (now Academy) and St. Gregory High School in north Chicago.

Tom met his future wife Kathleen (Kathy) Dennesaites while acting together in a high school play. They were married in 1961 and spent the rest of his years together, raising a family on Chicago’s Northwest side. Tom was a very even-tempered and practical man, but punctuated that calm with a quick wit and an easy, big laugh. As an educator, he also loved to learn and read (especially the Sunday comics that could be cut out and shared!) and took joy in figuring out more about the world each day.

After retiring, Tom and Kathy moved to the pacific northwest, exploring the area and living closer to their children and grandchildren, and found a new home in Beaverton, Oregon. He is survived by his wife Kathy and their three children and families: Joseph Bearden; David Bearden (& Erin Croft) with grandchildren Sophie, Liam and Elise; and Sarah Woodell (& Aaron) and grandchildren Leah and Hannah.  Tom passed away August 24, 2025 after a brief illness.