Thomas Wayne Acklen

September 23, 1943 – April 23, 2025

Thomas Wayne Acklen, lovingly known as Tommy, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at the age of 81. Though his greatest earthly joy came from time spent with family and friends, he longed for the day he would be welcomed into the Kingdom of Heaven by his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He talked about it often after the passing of his wife, Lois Faye Hill Acklen, in 2018 and experiencing a debilitating heart attack in February.

Tommy was a devoted husband and provider, a caring and supportive father, and a proud and loving Grampa who was a constant encourager to his grandchildren. His faith, integrity, and kind spirit left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Born on September 23,1943, in Memphis, Tennessee, Tommy was the son of the late Clarence Stanley and Pauline Rutherford Acklen. He was preceded in death by his older brother, Kenneth (Ken) Eugene Acklen, in 2008.

Tommy shared 52 wonderful years of marriage with Lois, and together they raised two children: Theresa Michelle Phillips (John) of Jonesboro, Arkansas, and Thomas Wayne Acklen, Jr. (Lisa) of Franklin, Tennessee. He and Wayne not only shared a name, but also a birthday, a bond they cherished deeply. His beloved grandchildren include Justin Acklen, Michelle Phillips, Caroline Acklen, and Jonathan Phillips, each of whom he held close to his heart.

Tommy was a band member and 1961 graduate of South Side High School. As a member of the inaugural graduating class of the Data Processing Institute in 1963, Tommy earned an Associate Degree in Data Processing. His career in information technology spanned decades, advancing from programmer to management to founder of his own consulting firm. He held roles with companies including Plough, Inc., Honeywell, and Parts Inc. before retiring in 2014 at the age of 70 from Automotive Distribution Network.

As a longtime resident of Cordova, Tennessee, Tommy faithfully served as an ordained deacon and Sunday School teacher for 29 years at Kirby Woods Baptist Church. In 2019, he joined Cornerstone Baptist Church and was an active member until he moved to Jonesboro, Arkansas in 2021. Tommy called Highland Drive Baptist his church family until the Lord called him home.

Tommy was the ultimate handyman, enjoyed playing golf, and took pride in the upkeep of his home and yard. His love for the Bible was evident in the many lessons he prepared for his Sunday School class over the years. He truly demonstrated a servant’s heart.

Visitation will be held on Friday, May 2nd, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Memphis Funeral Home (5599 Poplar Ave.). A brief visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 3rd, followed by Tommy’s Celebration of Life Service at 10:30 a.m., also at Memphis Funeral Home. Tommy will be laid to rest at Memorial Park Cemetery on Poplar Avenue.

Tommy Acklen lived a life marked by love, service, and unwavering faith. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.