Thomas Flatley

Thomas J. Flatley (August 30, 1931 - May 17, 2008) was an Irish–American billionaire and philanthropist engaged in real estate development.

Early life Flatley was born on August 30, 1931, in Kiltimagh County Mayo, Ireland and grew up on a 25-acre farm. In 1950, he immigrated to New York City with only $32.

He worked at a Bronx delicatessen, served in the army for 2 years and then moved to Boston, enrolling at Wentworth Institute of Technology on the G.I. Bill.

In 1998, Flatley funded construction of the Boston Irish Famine Memorial.

In 2002, he sold 11 properties to Aimco for $500 million.

In March 2007, Flatley was ranked 754th by Forbes on the list of the world's billionaires.

In May 2007, Flately sold his 10 shopping centers for $500 million.

In 2008, Flatley died of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Personal life Flatley lived in Milton, Massachusetts. He attended mass every morning at St. Agatha's Church, lived in a modest home, and usually flew coach.

He established a foundation with $200 million. Flatley gave millions to Catholic Charities USA, Boston College, Africa relief, and Irish causes.