Thomas "Tom" Marlin Kerlin

Visitation will be held, Sunday, from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 pm at Striffler-Hamby Funeral home, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus Georgia 31907

Thomas was preceded in death by his Father, Harry Lester Kerlin, and his mother, Nancy Holey Kerlin.

Tom was dearly loved by his two Brothers and their Spouses, Steve and Marie Kerlin of Union County, Georgia, Kerry and Donna Kerlin of Ooletwah, Tennessee, and his only Sister, Carol and Charles McClure, Jr. of Columbus. His Aunt, Susan Holey Psalmonds, of Atlanta, Georgia was also a very important part of Tom’s life. His nephews, Patrick wife Megan O’Hara, John wife Ursula O’Hara, Philip wife Katie Kerlin, Reese wife Kristin Kerlin, and nieces Stephanie spouse Alan Lewis , Carrie and Robert Sten, Kristi spouse Peter Feick, and Chloe Kerlin were always in his heart. Tom was also loved by first cousins, Vicki and Hugh White of Fortson, Georgia, Robert and Eva Steele of Columbus, Georgia, Rickey and Beth Steele of Atlanta, Georgia, and Susan and Carole Steele of Milton, Florida.

Tom lived a simple life. He was employed by Hardees in Columbus for over 15 years. He would run errands for neighbors when he lived at the Ralston Towers, and Tom never turned anyone away that needed his help. Tom's favorite pastime was shooting free throws. He would shoot for hours without missing, entertaining residents at the Home who were fascinated by his talents. Tom was gifted with a love for Jesus, attended church regularly, and loved his best friend, Bobby Farley, who played checkers with him daily. Oh, the fun they had telling each other jokes. One can still hear their laughter and conversations in the halls of the Stewart Community Home. Bobby and Tom were inseparable - they never missed a meal or a holiday together and where one went the other was close behind.

Tom was surrounded by wonderful, caring staff and residents at the Stewart Community home who became his family. What a wonderful life God gave him. Incredible, loved, and always remembered, Yes, he is !

In lieu of flowers the family requests a donation be made on Tom’s behalf to The Stewart Community Home, 1125 15th St. Columbus, GA 31901 or through Paypal-no account required, Venmo-Stewart Community Home sch1125 or cash app, Stewart Community Home @ sch1125

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.shcolumbus.com for the Kerlin family.