Thomas F. McGarry, of Grand Rapids, Mich., was born in Ada, Kent county, Mich., December 25, 1859 received a common school education, and taught school. He was admitted to the bar April 13, 1880; January 1, 1881, he became member of the firm of Mitchell, Bell & McGarry, of Ionia, Mich..; was city attorney three terms and mayor of Ionia one term. In 1884 he married Miss Nettie Belding, of Cincinnati, Ohio. In 1890 he moved to Grand Rapids, and became associated with the Hons. M. H. Ford, William F. McKnight, Allen B. Morse and J. Byron Judkins. January 1, 1895, he formed partnership with George E. Nichols, of Ionia. This firm conducts business both at Ionia and Grand Rapids, under the name of McGarry & Nichols.