Harold Thomas (Tommy) Irons
He was born with a little something extra, unique to him, and he was extra his entire life. When you met Harold Thomas (Tommy) Irons, you met someone with extra love, extra smiles, and an extra exuberance for life that shined through everything he did. Tommy was extra in every good and loving way. It was only fitting that he passed in the Sweetest Place on Earth.
Our extra special brother Tommy was promoted to heaven on July 3, 2026, where he will continue his life of unending love among angels. He was born November 10, 1961, in Aliquippa Hospital, the third of four children of Robert and Irene (Winkle) Irons. Born before the societal acceptance of Downs Syndrome felt today, Tommy enjoyed a life of inclusion by his immediate and extended family. He was a beloved son and brother who extended joy to everyone he met. His smile was quick, his love unending. Tom was a shining witness of God’s commandment in John 13:34 to “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”
Tommy graduated from New Horizon School where he was nicknamed ‘the greeter’ and he learned sign language after being assigned the task of walking a fellow student to her class. He also attended HAP Enterprises. He was a member of Service United Presbyterian Church, often welcoming members each Sunday with a firm handshake and a bulletin and collecting the offering. His singing of Doxology was distinguished and memorable. Tommy participated in Special Olympics and won several ribbons. His favorite holiday was a birthday, his own and others, never missing an opportunity to sing “Happy Birthday.” He loved food, ice cream, country music, and dancing. Tommy loved to be dressed in his suit and tie and never missed a chance to dance at family gatherings. He was known for his impeccable manners, hugs, and kisses. Tommy was loved by all who cared for him and left behind cherished stories from family, friends, and caregivers who worked with him daily. No one was ever above his gregarious, loving soul.
Tommy was preceded in death by his parents and his nephew, David A. Snow. He is survived by sisters Donna (Lee) Irons-Zimmerman, Melissa Ruttan, and a brother, Elvin Irons; five nieces and nephews, two great-nieces and a great-nephew.
Family and friends will be received on Thursday, July 9 from 2-4 and 6-8 pm, and Friday, July 10, from 10-11 am, followed by a service presided over by Pastor Tom Knowles, Christian House Baptist Chapel. Burial will follow at John Anderson Memorial Cemetery, 491 Service Church Road, Aliquippa, PA. A reception will be held with details provided later.
In lieu of flowers, the Irons-Zimmerman family requests that donations be made in Tommy’s honor to Special Olympics of PA, 2570 Blvd. of the Generals, Suite 124, Norristown, PA 19403 or online at https://specialolympicspa.org.
The Irons-Zimmerman family would like to acknowledge Tim O’Neill, Verland, who was a tireless advocate for Tommy and shared a great bond. We also recognize Merakey/AVS caregivers for their love and affection for Tommy, especially those who visited him in hospital during his final days. A deep thanks and appreciation to Dr. Tracy Irons-Dieterle for her medical guidance when requested, ensuring Tommy’s best interests were always represented.