Thomas D. Bredwell, of Brookville, was born on January 30, 1934 in Hamilton, Ohio, the son of Benny and Leatha F. Anthony Bredwell. He was a proud graduate of Richmond High School – class of 1953 and a cheerleader. Shortly after graduation Thomas danced with the Indianapolis Ballet Company and later the New York Ballet Company. After his dance career, he owned and operated a night club for teens in Indianapolis called “LeScene.” His travels took him to San Francisco where he met his life partner, Robert D. Meyer in 1970. Together Thomas and Robert continued the entrepreneurial spirit, owning flower shops in San Francisco and Cincinnati. After settling in Brookville they opened Rileybrook Hall, entertaining and serving wonderful homemade cuisine to its patrons for many years. Thomas was known for his love of music – especially the piano, dancing, cooking, gardening and entertaining. On Saturday, February 18, 2017 at the age of 83, Thomas’ earthly music was silenced when he passed away peacefully at home.
Those surviving who will cherish Thomas’ memory include his partner of 47 years, Robert D. Meyer; sisters, Joanne Barker of San Antonio, TX, Darlene (Robert) Koontz of Eaton, OH, and Cynthia Padgitt of Eaton, OH; brothers, Eldon (Connie) Atkinson of Burnside, KY, and Don (Melissa) Padgitt of Venice, FL, and sisters-in-law, Georgia Bredwell and Pamela Atkinson. Also surviving are numerous nieces, nephews and many dear and close friends. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by 3 brothers, Rev. John Bredwell, Russell Atkinson and Paul Atkinson, and dear friend, John Thom.
Friends may visit with the family on Wednesday, February 22, 2017 from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Cook Rosenberger Funeral Home, 929 Main Street, Brookville. Services, officiated by Rev. James Orr will be Thursday at 1 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Brookville EMS 2. To sign the online guestbook or to leave a personal condolence, please visit www.cookrosenberger.com. The staff of Cook Rosenberger Funeral Home is honored to care for the family of Thomas Bredwell.