Thomas "Tommy" Wayne Vermullen

Tommy Vermullen, 77, of Lexington, South Carolina, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his adoring family, on Friday, September 5, 2025.

Tommy was born on February 11, 1948, in Columbia, South Carolina, to the late Ophelia and Harry Vermullen. He was a proud graduate of the Eau Claire High School Class of 1967, where he played on the varsity football team as the starting tailback and was also a track and field athlete. Due to his success in sports, he received several collegiate offers, including one from the University of South Carolina, which he turned down to marry his high school sweetheart.

He was a devoted husband to the love of his life, Dorothy “Marie” Vermullen, for 57 years. Their love built a beautiful life together. He also adored their two children, Tammy and Wayne.

Tommy’s favorite title was “Papa” to his four grandchildren: Catharine, Cameron, Carter, and Trace.

Being a man of faith in Jesus Christ, Tommy was active in many churches and Sunday school groups throughout his life. He took great pride in serving as a former deacon at White Knoll Baptist Church. He was also a cherished mentor to young boys on church basketball teams, often serving as head coach. In addition, he contributed his time and talents in many church kitchens as the head cook, taking joy in feeding his church family.

Committed to serving others, Tommy proudly worked in law enforcement for the City of Columbia until he was injured in the line of duty.

After his retirement from the City of Columbia Police Department, he and Marie opened their home to many families through an after-school program. Though not related by blood, many children came to know and love them as “Uncle Tommy and Aunt Marie” because of the care and affection they so freely gave.

Even in his later years, Tommy's love for life remained strong. He loved spending time with his wife and family, fishing on Lake Murray with his cousin and fishing partner, Mike Joiner, and blessing others in any way he could. One of his greatest passions was tending to his garden and running a summer produce stand at his home. He saw this not just as a business, but as a ministry - often giving away produce to those in need. He believed it was his responsibility to care for others and faithfully lived that out. If someone was in need, Tommy was there to help.

Tommy will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and Papa—a man whose legacy of love and generosity lives on through those he leaves behind. Though he will be deeply missed, his family rejoices in the promise of being one-day reunited with their “Dad and Papa” because of his salvation in Jesus Christ.

Tommy is survived by his loving wife, Marie, and their children: Tammy Clark (Tom) and Wayne Vermullen (Ingrid). He is also survived by his grandchildren: Catharine Barone (Joe), Cameron Clark (McKayla), Carter Vermullen, and Trace Vermullen. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ophelia and Harry Vermullen, and his brother, Harry Michael Vermullen.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Lutheran Hospice for the compassionate care and support provided to Tommy during this difficult time.

Arrangements for Tommy are being handled by Caughman-Harman Funeral Home in Lexington. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, September 18th at 2:00 p.m. at Southland Memorial Gardens in West Columbia, South Carolina.