Industry Vet Tom Illius Dies

Tom Illius, 83, a 40-year veteran of William Morris, died in Los Angeles Sept. 7.

Illius began his career as a personal manager and an owner of a recording studio, then co-managed Frank Fontaine from “The Jackie Gleason Show,” then worked for Ashley Famous Agency as a nightclub agent.

He joined William Morris in 1971. He headed the record department, then became VP specializing in nightclub productions.

His territory was Nevada and in the market repped Bill Cosby, Tony Orlando, Debbie Reynolds, Jerry Lewis, Jim Nabors, Mickey Gilley, Charo and others.

Services will be held at 10 a.m. at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Beverly Hills Sept. 23 and donations can be made at the church.