For Tom Cobey, Dayton has always been home. “I was born here,” he said. “And even when I left, I always knew I’d come back.” After decades in education and coaching, Tom and his wife, Flo, now call 10 Wilmington Place home, a decision he says has brought friendship, comfort, and peace of mind.
A Flyer at Heart
Tom spent part of his childhood in New York, but he always had plans to come back to Ohio and attend the University of Dayton. “It was always my dream to go to UD,” he said. He graduated in 1962 after serving six years in the Marine Reserves. “It was a great experience. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”
A Life in Education and Coaching
Tom spent 36 years teaching in the Dayton area, including 19 years at Beavercreek High School, primarily teaching freshman English. Over 47 years, he coached football along with softball, wrestling, tennis, basketball, and track. His final 15 years coaching at Alter High School included two state championships.
“I used to tell my students, find something you love doing,” Tom said. “I loved coaching, and I basically went into education so I could coach. At first, I didn’t even like English.” Eventually, the likes of Shakespeare grew on him, but the real meaning for Tom as a teacher and coach was the relationships he built with his athletes and students. “When you see a former player become a doctor or earn a doctorate, you think ‘maybe I had a little bit to do with that.’ That’s the reward.”
Family First
Tom and Flo have been married 38 years and share a blended family of six daughters. “People say blending families is hard,” Tom said. “Our girls have been terrific. We’re one big happy family.” When it came time to move, their daughters stepped in. “Flo and I did very little. The six girls did everything.”
Choosing 10 Wilmington Place
After visiting several communities, one of their daughters recommended 10 Wilmington Place. “We came for a tour, and we were both pleased,” Tom said. They have now lived here for about ten months. “It’s been a very good decision. The people are friendly, and we’ve made good friends.”
Everyday Joys
Tom and Flo enjoy movies, bingo, Bible study, and sharing dinner each evening with the same group of friends. Flo recently won seven dollars at bingo. “Not a bad return on a fifty-cent investment,” Tom said with a smile. And one more highlight: “I haven’t left the dining room hungry yet. The shrimp on Fridays is my favorite.”
Words of Advice
After a lifetime in the classroom and on the field, Tom’s advice is simple. “Find something you love doing. Take a hobby and make a vocation out of it.” Looking back, he says he feels blessed. “I worked with great people. I was rewarded in many ways.”
At 10 Wilmington Place, Tom continues to live out the values that guided his career: commitment, community, and care for others.
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