Thomas Barry Cusick, of Chesapeake, Virginia, passed away peacefully at home on April 10, 2026.

Born in Pennsylvania, Tom's story found its true footing in the Academy Park neighborhood of Portsmouth, Virginia, where he was raised and built a life defined by grit, loyalty, and unmistakable presence. He was the kind of man who didn't just enter a room, he arrived.

Tom was drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam War and was stationed in Alaska. During his time in service, he discovered a talent for boxing, spending time in the ring with the same toughness and determination that would later define so many areas of his life.

He dedicated over 30 years to Ford Motor Company, where he became a fiery and legendary union leader. There, he was known as "High Pockets." His devotion was never to titles or institutions, but to the people he stood beside each day. He fought for them, spoke for them, and made sure they were never overlooked.

Outside of work, Tom poured that same passion into his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Cathy, and a proud father to his children, Patrick and Angela (Bill). He shared a special and cherished bond with Zoey, affectionately known as "Low Pockets," who brought him immense pride and joy.

He was also a loving brother to his sister, Darlene (Ray), and the youngest of eight other siblings, all of whom blessed him with many nieces and nephews he cherished deeply as their "Uncle Studley". He also shared close bonds with his extended family and always looked forward to time spent with his cousin Barbara during the holidays. He was blessed to have many loyal friends particularly Doug and Margie Vaughn and their family, who stood by him in good and bad times.

Some of his happiest moments were spent coaching Little League, where he wasn't just teaching the game, he was shaping confidence, resilience, and heart.

Tom loved professional wrestling, especially watching matches with Q-sic. He lived with enthusiasm, always all in, whether he was cheering from the sidelines or telling a story that could hold a room.

Through his daughter, Angela, he developed a deep love for dogs. He welcomed Bullet, Abbey, Coco, and especially Abel into his life. Abel, a black Staffordshire Terrier with a tough exterior and a heart of gold, shared a particularly special connection with Tom. Though he looked fierce, Abel was gentle and devoted, and the love between them was unmistakable to anyone who saw them together.

In his final days, Tom was cared for with compassion and dignity by his caretaker, Marlene, whose kindness and presence brought comfort not only to him but to his family. Her care will always be remembered with deep gratitude.

Tom had charisma to spare and never struggled to find the right words. He left an impression wherever he went, one that lingered long after the moment passed. He never said goodbye without meaning it, whether it was a heartfelt "God bless" or a spirited Ric Flair "Whoo!"

He will be remembered for his strength, his voice, his humor, and above all, his fierce and unwavering love for his family, his friends, and the lives he touched along the way.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Edmarc--Hope for the Journey . Condolences may be registered at BWFosterFuneralHome.com.