Thomas Arthur Baggett

Tom was born July 1st, 1921 in Alicia, Michigan and later relocated to Paducah, KY where he lived until enlisting with the US Marine Corps in 1942. He served in the Marshall Islands in WWII as an aircraft technician.

During his time in the Marines, he started an amateur boxing career, including the National Golden Gloves tournament in 1947-1949. In 1948 and 1949 he lost to the eventual champion both years. In 1950, he turned pro and continued to box until he retired from the ring in 1956.

Tom earned a Bachelors degree in physical education in 1951 and a Masters degree in Industrial Education in 1963, both from Murray State University. He had various teaching positions until settling in Poplar Bluff in 1960 and marrying his wife Barbara. He spent the next 27 years teaching industrial arts at Poplar Bluff Junior High.

Tom was an avid sports fan, especially the St. Louis Cardinals and Kentucky Wildcats. He had a passion for running and competed in road races well into his 70s.

Tom was a man of incredible faith. He was a mentor to thousand of students over the years. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather.

Tom is survived by his wife Barbara and two sons: Thomas Baggett Jr and his Wife Patricia Baggett, of Irving, TX and Dennis Baggett and his wife Jennifer Baggett, of Columbia. Also surviving are grandkids Megan, Madeline, Emma and Woodley Baggett.

A Celebration of Life will be from 2 p.m., Wednesday December 9, 2015, at Lenoir Woods Epple Chapel 1 Hourigan Cir, Columbia, MO with a visitation beginning at 1 p.m.

Graveside service will be 1pm Thursday December 10, 2015 at Woodlawn Cemetery, in Poplar Bluff, MO, with Military honors to follow.

Online tributes may be left at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com