Thomas Claiborne Land

Tom was born in Memphis TN on 8-14-1947. He loved life and lived it to its absolute fullest. He grew up in Madison and watched it grow from a humble railroad stop to the beautiful city it is today. Tom was an accomplished musician and after college, he answered his country's call and volunteered for service in the United States Army. He became a helicopter pilot and was decorated while serving with the gallant 281st Assault Helicopter Company and the Fifth Special Forces in the Republic of South Vietnam. He came home in 1970 and within two weeks married the love of his life, Melanie Cheri Knox who waited patiently for his return. He spent nearly his entire life self-employed following his heart into countless skills and disciplines and mastered them all. Tom and Melanie were married for 47 years and had three children, Elaine Louise Sumrall, Louis Claiborne Land, and Van Thomas Knox Land. His family always came first and he was the greatest husband and father that could have ever been imagined, and was also the kindest of souls to each and every man, woman, child, and creature that crossed his path. He is loved and sorely missed by countless friends and family.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife Melanie, his two sons Clay and Van, and his grandson Joseph Landon Sumrall. Tom was predeceased by his daughter Laney, his mother Alice, and his father James.

Tom was a member of the United Association of Pipefitters local 619 and the Mississippi Wing of the Commemorative Air Force.

Funeral services will be held at Parkway Memorial Cemetery 1161 Highland Colony Parkway Ridgeland, MS 39157. Visitation will be Saturday from 11-1 at the parkway funeral home and grave side services will follow immediately after.

Memorial donations may be made in honor of Thomas Claiborne Land to the Mississippi Wing of The Commemorative Air Force P.O. Box 3042 Madison, Ms. 39130