Tommy Ray Covington

He was born to David E. & Geneva Covington and was one of twelve children. He graduated from Young High School before entering the Army and marrying the love of his life, Carolyn.

Tommy dedicated 23 years to serving his country before retiring as a Sergeant First Class (E-7). He accumulated many accolades as part of the Marksmanship Unit during his last 9 years of service. The next 18 years, he worked as part of the security team at Y-12.

Tommy's greatest joy in life was to tease those he loved most. Fishing and hunting were his favorite hobbies. You could find him most weekends on Douglas Lake fishing a bass tournament with one of his trusty "net-men”; Chris, Chucky or Bill Giron.

He was preceded in death by his parents, four sisters, four brothers and his oldest son, Glenn. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 57 years, Carolyn; son, Chris (Leighanne); daughter-in-law, Tina; grandchildren, Hannah (Josiah), Daniel and Milas; twin great grandchildren, Roen and Ravenah; brothers, Chucky (Sherry) and Gordon; sister, Mary; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and other friends.

Friends and family will gather for a graveside service at East Tennessee State Veterans' Cemetery, 2200 E Governor John Sevier Hwy, Knoxville, TN 37920 on Tuesday April 15, 2025 at 12:30pm, with his brother, Chucky, leading the service. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to any of Tommy's preferred charities, including the Wounded Warrior Project, St. Jude's or Shriner's Hospital.