Thomas Jackson English

He is preceded in death by his wife of 49 years, Mattie (Cromwell) English and leaves behind two sons: Thomas Jay English and his wife, Heidi Friedman; and Timothy Jon English and his wife, Georgianna Marie. He also leaves a sister, Sandra Dunn, a brother, Jerral English, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Born and raised in Goodway, Alabama, the son of Eddie and Lillie (Feaster) English, he was a longtime resident of Alcoa, Tennessee. Born on a farm in Alabama, Mr. English spent his early years tending cotton fields and cultivating his love of the outdoors. At 17, he joined the United States Air Force, serving for 25 years and achieving the rank of Senior Master Sergeant. While in the military, he met his wife, Mattie Cromwell and they were married in 1952. Upon his retirement from the Air Force, Mr. English began his second career with the United States Postal Service, serving in both Alcoa and Tucson, Arizona. He retired from the postal service in 1994.

Mr. English had a passion for exercise and being outside. He enjoyed walking and riding his bicycle along the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway, which he continued to do well into his 80’s. He could often be seen, big smile on his face, reveling in the beautiful weather and his vital health.

A man of great character and strength, he lived by a code of honesty and honor, which he passed along to his sons and, in turn, their children. He was known and will be remembered as a polite southern gentleman who always had a kind word and a sense of appreciation for those around him. Even in his final days, he charmed his caregivers with his bright smile and courtesy.

Private burial will take place at the East Tennessee State Veterans’ Cemetery. Memorial services will be held on Sunday, May 3rd at 2 pm at the Calvary Baptist Church in Alcoa, TN and on Saturday, May 9th at 5 pm at the Desert Song Healing Arts Center in Phoenix, Arizona. Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital tribute account #38154216 or to the Calvary Baptist Church (Alcoa) Building Fund. Condolences may be offered at www.berrylynnhurst.com