Thomas Yarbrough

Born on May 17, 1934 in Lexington, NC, Thomas was the son of Thomas and Veatrul Yarbrough. He grew up in Lexington, NC, where he attended school, in 1948 Thomas joined the Army.

He married Pamela Yarbrough, and together they raised one child: Kelly Yarbrough. Thomas was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, cherishing every moment spent with his family.

He dedicated 22.5 years of his life to the United States Army with unwavering commitment and pride. Rising to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer II, he served with distinction, including an esteemed role on the presidential staff of both President Eisenhower and President Kennedy. His dedication to duty took him across the globe, where he earned three Bronze Stars for valor, the Air Medal, and two Army Commendation Medals—one for his meritorious service in the Dominican Republic and another for his outstanding contributions in Berlin, Germany. Thomas embodied the true spirit of a soldier, carrying out his mission with honor, courage, and an unbreakable devotion to his country.

Beyond his professional life, Thomas had a passion for family, friends and riding his motorcycle all over the country.

Thomas is survived by his wife, Pamela Yarbrough; his children, Kelly Yarbrough, Diane Yarbrough and Karen Reid; grandchildren, Amber Yarbrough, Riley Holland, Harper Stephens, Kirsten Watson and Jana Harrington and great-grandchildren Reid Watson, Liam Watson and Grier Harrington; siblings, Kay Hamilton, Peggy Hawkins and Mac Yarbrough. 

A visitation will be held on Thursday, April 10th from 6pm to 8pm at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home, 7242 Normandy Road, Jacksonville FL. A funeral service will be held on Friday, April 11th at 10:30am at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home. After the service, a committal ceremony will take place at the Jacksonville national cemetery at 12:30pm.

Following the committal, family and friends are invited to Thomas' home to share memories and celebrate his life.