Born in Beaumont, TX on March 22, 1938 to J.P. and Juanita Choate, Tom graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School (Port Arthur, TX) in 1956. Tom married Peggy Barbin Choate, his high school sweetheart, on April 3, 1958. He then went on to complete a Bachelor of Science degree from Lamar University in 1960. Tom and Peggy had two children, Carol Choate Russell and Jay Choate. He taught school in Port Arthur before accepting a position at First National Bank in Port Arthur, beginning his long career in banking. In 1973, the Choate family relocated to Nacogdoches as Tom became Vice President of Commercial National Bank. By 1975, he had been named President and CEO and served in this position until 1988. He continued to serve on the Board of Directors for nearly three decades before his retirement in 2014, totaling 50 years in banking. Aside from a remarkable career, Tom had a love for the community and Nacogdoches. He was one of the founders of the Nacogdoches Heritage Festival, and served as Chairman for the first two years. In addition he served as President of the Nacogdoches Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club and Booster Club, and was a member of countless other clubs and organizations in Nacogdoches.
While all these accomplishments were something to be proud of, Tom was most proud of his family. He was a model of love, humility, and generosity, and never hesitated to sacrificially give anything he had to help his family and friends. He attended every event, game, and performance, and was always available to give wisdom and encouragement. Tom and Peggy’s door was always open for kids, grandkids, and neighbors to come by at any time of day. He lived his life serving others, his family, and the community of Nacogdoches.
Tom was preceded in death by his brother, Don Gardner, and parents, J.P. and Juanita Choate. He is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Peggy, daughter Carol Russell and husband Roger, son Jay Choate and wife Kim. Additionally Tom is survived by his grandchildren, Blake Russell and wife Ashley, Maci Choate and fiancé Dustin Wood, Allison Russell, Tori Dement and husband Lance, Blake Fincher and fiancée Emily Copeland, Brandon Fincher, Paige Carroll, and Grant Choate. He will be greatly missed by all his great grandchildren, Alli Anna, Emery, Clara, Nick, and expecting two more soon. The family would like to especially thank Jessica Montgomery and Rita McGowan from Accolade Homecare and Hospice for the love and care they gave to our family in these last days.
Visitation for family and friends will be at Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Home on Friday, March 30, 2018 at 2:00 pm, immediately followed by the funeral service at 3:00 pm officiated by Tom and Peg's grandson Pastor Blake Russell, and Pastor Bobby Smith. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Park. Pallbearers are James Standley, Robin Dawley, Jerry Baker, Bill Ferrett, Bill Baugus, and Doug Matson.
Please visit www.CasonMonk-Metcalf.com to leave your online condolences and memories.
Arrangements are under the direction of Cason Monk-Metcalf Funeral Directors, Nacogdoches.
