Thomas "Tommy" Braxton McKenzie

On Thursday, May 8th, Thomas Braxton McKenzie, 73, died peacefully at home while surrounded by his children. He courageously and heroically battled leukemia for over 27 years, which contributed to a vascular disease that ultimately led to his passing.

Son of the late William Roberts McKenzie and Henrietta Walton McKenzie, Tommy was raised in High Point, North Carolina where he attended High Point Central High School. Upon graduation, Tommy went to Davidson College, where he played rugby and earned a bachelor’s degree in political science. Following Davidson, Tommy entered the graduate program at the Sino-Soviet Institute at George Washington University. In 1977, after his time in Washington, D.C., Tommy moved to Greensboro, North Carolina. He then began a career in technology sales with Burroughs Corporation, which later became Unisys. He remained with Unisys for the entirety of his career, eventually retiring at the age of 62.

Tommy enjoyed many things throughout his full life, including a good round of golf, annual family vacations at the beach, and having a cold beverage in his backyard “Mediation Center” with his best friends whom he considered family. He especially loved taking walks through the neighborhood with his beloved dog, LaForte, who was always by his side.

Tommy is survived by his three much adored children, Marcy Rankin McKenzie, Thomas Braxton McKenzie, Jr., and Brian Jensen McKenzie; his brothers John Walton McKenzie (Kathy), Michael Murphy McKenzie, and William Roberts McKenzie, Jr. (Sally); a close circle of nieces and nephews with whom he shared a special bond, and many other endeared family members.

A celebration of life service will be held on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at 11:00 am at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Greensboro. A reception for family and friends will be held immediately following the service in the Haywood Duke Room.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (www.LLS.org) or to a charity of your choice.

Fond memories and online condolences may be left at www.haneslineberryfhnorthelm.com for the McKenzie family.