KERRVILLE — I. A. Tony Rome, 87, passed away Friday, Feb. 19, 2016 at a local care center.

Rome was born in Vacherie, the son of Jean and Elucia Rome. He succumbed to a battle with chronic lung disease.

Rome met the love his life, Beverly, five years into his U.S. Army career. He was stationed with the Alaska Communication System, and the two were married on June 28, 1952, at the Bethany Presbyterian Church on Queen Anne Hill in Seattle.

They lived in the Seattle, Bothell area, until 1955. Rome completed his military career of 25 years in 1970. The couple travelled the United States full time in a 5th Wheeler before choosing their home in historic Ingram, Texas.

They resided in Ingram, Texas Hill Country for 15 years until Beverly’s battle with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension ended her life on Feb. 19, 2014. Rome made his final retirement in Kerrville, Texas.

Those left to honor and cherish his memory are his brother, Jean Rome Jr., and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Beverly Smith Rome, with whom he recently celebrated 61 years of marriage; sisters Lise Crabtree, Ann Salzer, Freida Walker Newcomb, Amy Ocmond and Emelia Rome; and brothers Thomas Rome, Russell Rome, Eddie Rome, Clincy Rome, Sterling Rome and Edward Rome.

By his request, the family will have private services.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory at kerrvillefuneralhometx.com. Select obituaries; select “sign guestbook” at the top right of the individual memorial.

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of the professionals at Kerrville Funeral Home.