Thomas L. Culbreth

Once upon a time, there was a young boy, born in Spartanburg, SC, to lovely parents, Frances and Heber Culbreth. Along with his big sister Joanne C. Greer and her eventual family, Robert Greer and Luanne, Tom lived a happy life. He grew up surrounded by many people that became life-long friends. After graduating from Fairforest High School in 1963, it was time to decide about a future. Tom was torn between being a dentist or being an engineer. The decision made, off he went to Clemson University to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering.

After college, Tom got a job locally but he had that wanderlust bubbling around inside of him. He worked his way out and up through well known companies like Fluor Engineering and Jacobs Engineering. Throughout his career, Tom rose in the ranks from Project Engineer to Project Manager to divisional Vice President. He lived in 6 states and traveled abroad. And added more long time friends, a wife Cathy, a lovely daughter Shellie, a faithful son-in-law Justin Smith and a special buddy/grandson Browan.

Having satisfied his wanderlust, he concentrated on his next dream of retiring by age 55. Tom worked hard, planned hard and saved hard and retired the day before his 55th birthday. More special friends.

With time on his hands, Tom started building up his collection of toys. Cars, motorcycle, lake house, and yes, tractor and dump truck. He spent the rest of his life playing with his toys, making more new friends, and living his best life! As Frank Sinatra sang, HE DID IT HIS WAY! He was well loved!

A graveside service for Tom will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, June 17, 2026 at Woodlawn Memorial Park, 1901 Wade Hampton Blvd. Greenville, SC 29609.