‘His spirit marches on’: Hilton Head legend Tom Reilley honored at St. Patrick’s Day parade
A familiar face was missing this year from the 40th annual Hilton Head Island St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
His name was Tom Reilley, and he founded the parade more than 40 years ago. The local legend passed away last May after a months-long battle with severe health problems.
This year marks the first year the parade has been held without him. In March 2025, while Reilley was in the hospital, the parade was cancelled due to bad weather.
Widow Diane Reilley was selected as the Grand Marshal for the parade last year. Sunday afternoon, she could be seen waving at spectators, still wearing her wedding ring.
Following close behind were Thomas and Catherine Reilley, two of the restaurateur’s seven children, holding up a banner that read, “His spirit marches on.”
Click through the gallery below to see more highlights from the 40th annual Hilton Head Island St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
