Tommy Allison Whitley Jr.

May 11, 1949 – August 29, 2025

It is with heavy hearts and great love that we remember the life of Tommy Allison Whitley, Jr., who passed from this life on August 29, 2025, at the age of 76.

Tommy was born on May 11, 1949, in Fort Worth, Texas, to Tommy Sr. and Ima Jean Whitley. He grew up in a family that valued hard work, respect, and faith, lessons that shaped the man he became and the legacy he left behind. He graduated from Green B. Trimble Technical High School in 1967, and soon after, answered the call to serve his country.

In 1971, Tommy joined the United States Marine Corps, where he rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant during his years of service through 1973. He continued to serve honorably for two additional years in the Marine Corps Reserve. His time in the Marines instilled in him an unwavering discipline and sense of duty—qualities that guided him throughout his life.

After his military service, Tommy began what would become a distinguished career at Lockheed Martin, where he dedicated over 40 years of his life. Known for his work ethic, skill, and loyalty, he contributed to projects that helped shape the future of aviation and defense. He retired with pride, knowing he had given his very best.

For 30 years, Tommy was the devoted husband of Judy Whitley, his beloved partner and steadfast companion. Together they built a life rich in family, love, and lasting memories.

Tommy was the proud father of Fred & Paula Whitley, David & Sonia Whitley, Sandy & Mel Reynolds, Teri Whitley & Larry Ford, Justin & Leigh Melton, Cody Melton, and Jerry & Katherine Smith. His children will forever carry the values he taught them: honesty, humility, respect, and the importance of standing tall through life’s trials.

He was also a cherished brother to Beverly Whitley, Carol & Garland Hutson, and Barbara & Ed Hill. Tommy was a beloved uncle to Jeff Whitley, as well as many other nieces and nephews who admired him deeply.

Family was at the center of Tommy’s life. As “Papa,” he treasured his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, celebrating each milestone and blessing with pride. His legacy lives on in their laughter, their achievements, and in the love they will always carry for him.

Outside of his career and military service, Tommy was a master carpenter, a craftsman whose work was both practical and enduring. He built with his hands but also with his heart, creating not just furniture or structures, but a foundation of stability for his family. His work left behind not only physical reminders of his skill, but also the lessons of dedication and perseverance.

Tommy’s life was one of service—to his country, to his work, and most of all, to his family. He will be remembered as a man of integrity, strength, and love, who taught by example and left behind a legacy that cannot be measured in words alone.

He is survived by his wife, his children, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, his siblings, and his extended family, all of whom will miss him deeply and honor his memory always.

Though he has left this world, the lessons he taught, the love he shared, and the strength he showed will live on forever in the hearts of those who were blessed to know him.