Thomas Beach

Thomas Sidney Beach, a devoted husband, father, Pawpaw, and esteemed retired Master Chief Petty Officer of the United States Navy, passed away on August 1, 2024. Born on January 10, 1947 in Morganton, NC, to Ruth May Singleton and William Beach, Thomas (Thom) was raised by Ruth and Jack Clifford Singleton, who raised him as his own.

Thomas is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Linda Faye Beach. Together, they built a life full of love and devotion. He leaves behind four children: Matthew Richard (Kathleen) McClain, Thomasina Beach-Kitchen, Clifford Adam (Lily) Beach, and Jacob Andrew (Eliza) Beach. His legacy continues through his eight cherished grandchildren: Joseph (Marie), Jacob, (Nate), Eloise, Sammy, Olivia, and Isabella. A great-granddaughter: Rosemary, and a much-anticipated great-grandson, Roan. He is also survived by his brother, Charles C. Singleton of Morganton, NC.

His 28 year military career was marked by dedication and resilience. As a submariner, Master Chief Beach earned a distinguished reputation for his unwavering commitment and leadership. His colleagues admired him for his ability to navigate the complexities of his role with steadfast integrity and grace.

TMCM(SS/SW/DV) USN (Ret), Thom’s distinguished service and commitment to the U.S. Navy and his country are truly remarkable. A proud graduate from Morganton High School in Morganton, NC, Thom enlisted in the Navy in San Diego, CA, where he excelled in electricity and electronics school. After completing Torpedoman's Mate (TM) school, he advanced to Submarine School in New London.

Thom’s naval career began at the ASW Base in San Diego, where he served in Base Security and as a member of the Color Guard. His first sea duty was on the USS Seadragon (SSN 584), followed by a notable assignment aboard the HMCS Grisle, where he trained Canadian sailors in the operation and maintenance of the MK 37 Torpedo. He was then temporarily assigned to the USS Tiru for grounding repairs and graduated from the Navy Divers School.

His subsequent service included a significant role aboard the USS Tinosa (SSN 606), participating in subsafe sea trials, tests, and weapons inspections during the Cold War, as well as tracking submarines on Northern Runs, Mediterranean Cruises, and Southern Trips. Thom furthered his expertise at the Fleet Ballistic Missile Launcher School in Dam Neck, VA, and served on the USS Simon Bolivar, contributing to Strategic Deterrent Patrols in the Atlantic and Mediterranean.

Thom’s later assignments included serving as Production Chief for the initial Trident Missile Program at the Poseidon Missile Base in Charleston, SC. His overseas duty took him to La Maddalena, Sardinia, Italy, where he worked as the Squadron Staff Assistant Weapons and Security Officer on the USS Gilmore (AS 16) and the USS Orion (AS 18). Thom then led the start-up of the first Submarine Preventive and Maintenance Monitoring Team in Norfolk, VA, and served as the W-1 Division Officer aboard the USS Holland. His final assignment was as Leading Master Chief for the establishment of the Trident Refit and Defensive Ordinance Facility at Submarine Base Kings Bay.

MCPO Beach earned a distinguished array of military honors, including the prestigious Navy Commendation Medal, four Navy Achievement Medals, and seven Good Conduct Medals. His accolades also include two National Defense Medals, two Vietnam Service Medals, the Cold War Citation, three Overseas Deployment Ribbons, and two Navy Unit Citations. He was also awarded eight Meritorious Unit Citations, six Battle Efficiency Awards, and numerous personal commendations and citations.

Following his naval career, Thom pursued higher education using his GI Bill, earning an Associate's Degree from Trident Technical College in Charleston, SC, a Bachelor's Degree from Limestone College in Gaffney, SC, and a Master’s of Arts in Education at The Citadel, reflecting his lifelong commitment to growth and learning.

Thom’s passions extended beyond his professional life. He relished time with his friends, finding joy in sharing stories and indulging in his love for food. His grandchildren will fondly remember celebrating holidays together, his animated storytelling, adventures in his blue truck, and for everything that will always be Pawpaw.

The saying, “Submarine life is not a service, but a religion,” is a testament to his profound dedication to his naval career. Thomas Sidney Beach will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his leadership, his loving family, and his unwavering spirit. His life, well-lived and well-loved, will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Services will be held at 10:00 AM on August 17th at Carolina Funeral Homes and Memorial Gardens, North Charleston. All who are able are invited to celebrate Thomas's life and legacy at the Fleet Reserves in Goose Creek, South Carolina, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM.

The family will hold a private inurnment in Morganton, North Carolina, on a date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent to the Fisher House Foundation or the Shriners Hospital.