Tom graduated from Satsuma High School, followed by the completion of a B.S. degree from the University of Mobile with a major in Biology. Following a brief employment in the local marketplace, he joined the Army, August 1976 and retired in March 1989. He was passionate about a myriad of music genre, especially country. Upon retirement, he performed as a “disc jockey” for a local station and through the years acquired a significantly large record collection. Upon retiring from his disc jockey assignment, he attended country music gatherings with performances by local artists with a “potluck” meal provided by some of the regular attendees and organizers.
He is preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Billie Jo Smith, brothers, Paul and Johnny White, as well as a nephew, Mark Smith. Surviving members of his family, include, Richard and Lisa W. Sullivan (daughter), grandchildren, Allison S. Chappell, and Lauren S. Oliver, along with great grandchildren, Graham and Grace Oliver. Additional family include Paul (nephew) and Karen Smith, Steven (nephew) and Annette Smith, Deanne (niece) White Lynch and Jeremy and Rachel White (niece).
Tommy (name some friends and family used) was a man who loved deeply and unconditionally, always altruistic , kind and caring. At the end of a conversation or meeting with Tom, he would always say, “please let me know if you need anything...I’ll be right there.” He loved the Army and the men and women who worked alongside him. A special part of his day, prior to his medical challenge, was meeting at McDonald’s with other military veterans.
A service of remembrance will he held Tuesday , October 4 at Radney’s Funeral Home, 1200 Industrial Parkway, Saraland, Alabama. Family visitation with be 8:30 and public visitation 9:00-10:00. A 10:30 graveside service will be held at Forestlawn Cemetery, 1000 Celeste Road, Saraland, Alabama. In lieu of flowers, honor his memory by donating to Wounded Warriors at woundedwarriorproject .org.
Condolences may be offered at www.radneyfuneralhome-saraland.com.
