Thomas Keller Baughman

Thomas "Tom" Keller Baughman, a gifted musician and devoted family man, passed away unexpectedly at home on his 69th birthday, January 23, 2025. Born on January 23, 1956, in Chillicothe, Ohio, Tom was the son of Max Vernon Baughman and Janice Keller Baughman. He grew up in his hometown with his brother Mark and attended Chillicothe High School before embarking on a life filled with music, love, and dedication.

He performed at Opryland Theme Park as part of the Country Music USA band and toured Europe with the Opryland show, playing for audiences that included the French Ambassador. He also graced the stage at Dollywood Theme Park in Pigeon Forge. Over the years, Tom lent his exceptional skills to artists such as Marsha Thornton, Billy Dean, Tracy Lawrence for eight memorable years, John Michael Montgomery for seven years, Tracy Byrd for three years, and other notable performers including Jerry Lee Lewis, Mark Chesnutt, Lonestar, George Strait, and Kenny Chesney.

Tom’s recording achievements were equally impressive. He contributed to several of Tracy Lawrence’s albums with standout performances on acoustic and steel guitar for *Tracy Lawrence Live* and *The Coast Is Clear*, particularly on the iconic song “Time Marches On.” Tom was nominated in 1996 by the Academy of Country Music for Studio Recording Award Steel Guitar Player of the Year.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his loving wife, Lori, their two devoted children, Holly Baughman Goetz and spouse Andrew, and Matthew Keller Baughman, all of Nashville, TN. He is also survived by his older brother Mark Baughman and partner Nancy, of Sarasota, FL.

The family requests, in lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the ASPCA in honor of Tom's love for all animals.

Celebration of Life service is to be held at New Hope Hermitage Church, 6010 S. New Hope Road, Hermitage, TN 37138 at 2:00 pm CST on Saturday, February 8, 2025. Family will begin receiving guests beginning at 1:00 pm CST.

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