Thomas Fletcher Batson

Judge Batson was born on March 13, 1940, and was the son of the late H.B. and Eva Bridwell Batson. Tom graduated from Paris High School, earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Furman University and went on to receive his Bachelor of Law (LLB) from the University of South Carolina School of Law. He then served as an Assistant United States Attorney for the next 5 years; and at the age of 32, he became one of the youngest attorneys ever to be appointed as a Federal Judge. After over 40 years of service as a Federal Administrative Law judge, Tom retired in October of 2014.

Everyone who had the honor of knowing Tom, both professionally and personally, knew him to be an honorable gentleman. He was kind and compassionate, full of wisdom and virtuous judgement, and someone who always put others before himself. Tom loved nature and the outdoors and his most cherished memories, often shared over his favorite “adult beverage”, were those hunting, fishing, or simply observing God’s beautiful creation.

Tom is survived by his wife, Ann Bible-Batson, and three children: Kim Batson Garvilla (John) of Missouri; Thomas F. Batson Jr. (Sarah) of Greenville, South Carolina; and Shannon Batson Terry (J.P.) of New Jersey. He was a devoted stepfather to Carl Wooten (Jonet), Tammy Wooten Claussen (Buck), and Richard Wooten IV. Tom was also blessed with 16 grandchildren: Chandler, Thomas, Addison, Rollins, Eva, Patrick (Meredith), Samantha (Jack), Joshua, Danial, Caleb, Ashley (Robert), Chad, Kaylee (Wally), Richard (Maddie), and AnnMarie (Gregory); and 9 great-grandchildren. Tom was preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, Gloria Rollins Batson; his grandson Bradley Wooten; and his brother Hugh Bridwell Batson (India).

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Roger C. Peace Rehabilitation Hospital and Prisma Health for their dedicated care. Special gratitude is given to Mac Acosta and Rachel Smith for their unwavering support.

A visitation will be held on May 15, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Mackey Funeral Home at Woodlawn (1 Pine Knoll Dr. Greenville, 29609).

The funeral service will be held on Friday May 16, 2025, at 2:30 PM at First Baptist Church of Greenville (847 Cleveland St. Greenville, 29601) with a Celebration of Life to follow beginning at 4:00 PM at The Poinsett Club.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: Roger C. Peace Hospital Community Health and Wellness Initiative at Unity Park. https://secure3.convio.net/ghso/site/Donation2