WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. —  Thierry was born on August 2, 1972, in Dakar, Senegal. From the very beginning, he was a beautiful child — full of vitality and wonder toward everything around him. Two years later, in 1974, the family returned to France, settling in the Paris region for a year before moving again in 1975 to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. There, Thierry discovered a rich and fascinating culture. The family home stood on the edge of the desert — a landscape that stirred his imagination and awakened his love of adventure. He picked up some Arabic words and, even as a child, revealed his fearless spirit, venturing beyond the boundaries set by his parents. In 1977, the family moved back to France, only to leave again in 1978 for Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. Thierry spent two and a half years there, often staying in hotels, dividing his time between school, swimming, and endless explorations along the vast lagoon. He loved those mysterious places where dark waters hid fish, crocodiles, and snakes. These early years, filled with discovery and freedom, shaped the curious and daring nature that would define him throughout his life. In 1980, the family settled in Rueil-Malmaison, France. Thierry attended Bons Raisins Primary School, then La Malmaison Middle School. He was a diligent, respectful, and kind student, always surrounded by friends. At twelve, Thierry discovered a new passion — tennis. The sport quickly became a major part of his life. He trained with discipline, competed with enthusiasm, and found in the game both joy and balance — qualities that would stay with him always. During these same years, he taught himself to play the guitar. Music became his refuge — a lifelong source of comfort and creative expression.

Thierry continued his studies at Lycée Richelieu, then completed his final year at Lycée d’Évreux as a boarder. There, he formed deep friendships that endured for decades. After earning his baccalauréat, he chose to pursue his true calling: the restaurant world. Passionate about cuisine and human connection, Thierry began his career in French restaurants, where his talent and dedication quickly stood out. A few years later, a unique opportunity presented itself — to work in the United States with a family member. In 1997, he embraced this new adventure. Although his English was limited when he arrived, he learned quickly and immersed himself in American culture. Within months, he had adapted completely— to his profession, to his environment, and to his new life. He became an American citizen and flourished in the hospitality industry that had always inspired him. One of the proudest chapters of Thierry’s life was the opening of The Purple Pub, his own restaurant and bar. It was far more than a business — it reflected who he was: warm, welcoming, and full of life. Thierry poured his heart into every detail — the food, the atmosphere, the laughter that filled the room. Through The Purple Pub, he created not just a restaurant, but a community — a place where everyone felt they belonged. Thierry maintained a deep and unbreakable bond with his maternal grandparents, Simone and Yves Rollin. They were always there for him, offering love, guidance, and stability. From them, he learned the true meaning of kindness, respect, and compassion for others. Above all, Thierry was a devoted and loving father to Jackson Rollin Breard, born on June 2nd, 2008. Jackson was the light of his life. Their bond was filled with laughter, warmth, and mutual affection. Jackson often made his father laugh, and he loved spending time with him at the restaurant — moments of joy and genuine togetherness.

Thierry was deeply proud of his son — of his heart, his curiosity, and the happiness he brought into his life. Being a father gave Thierry a profound sense of purpose and peace; every shared moment was a gift he cherished. Thierry shared a remarkable bond with Kira Breard, who is not only a wonderful and devoted mother to his son, but also his closest friend. She brought him steadiness, kindness, and unconditional support. Their connection was one of trust and deep understanding, built over years of shared experiences, respect, and care. Thierry loved to cook, to welcome, to give. His greatest joy was offering the best of himself — through a dish, a smile, or a gesture of kindness. Always curious, always generous, he never stopped growing, evolving, and above all, loving those around him. Thierry leaves behind the memory of a generous, passionate, and deeply human man, whose light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who loved him.

A Memorial Service and Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, October 19 at 11 am EST at The Williams Inn in Williamstown, MA. The service will be held outside and followed by a reception to honor Thierry’s Life. The service is open to the community and to everyone who loved Thierry.

Services will be streamed. A link will be shared in the coming days. In lieu of flowers, a scholarship will be set up in Jackson’s name. More details to follow shortly.