Thomas "Tom" Robert Richmond

Thomas "Tom" Robert Richmond, 73, of Knoxville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at his home on January 28, 2026, surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Known for his unwavering positivity and humor, Tom's spirit touched everyone he met. He is now in Heaven with Jesus, free from suffering, and experiencing only what we can imagine.

Tom was born on September 24, 1952, in Coshocton, Ohio and later moved to Chattanooga, TN, where he embraced every adventure life had to offer. He attended City High School, where he played football and forged many lifelong friendships. After graduating from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Tom began his career at the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) in their energy conservation program where he met his future wife, Christal Ann Shorter. Married in 1979, Chris and Tom built a wonderful life in Knoxville with their beloved daughter, Laura.

For 25 years leading up to his retirement, Tom held various roles at ORAU. Later in his career, he excelled as a project manager, playing a pivotal role in the planning and execution of the National Science Bowl for both middle and high school students in Washington, D.C. His steadfast dedication to education and mentorship profoundly impacted countless young lives.

Tom was passionate about community service, serving on the boards of Bethany Christian Services and his neighborhood pool.

A true outdoorsman at heart, Tom enjoyed fishing and camping with his best friends at Citico Creek and embarking on unforgettable fishing trips to Alaska. He was also an avid Tennessee Vols fan, always proudly wearing Big Orange. Tom approached each day with a “glass half full” mindset, deeply loving his family and friends, never meeting a stranger.

Tom leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and treasured memories. Despite the challenges he faced, Tom’s strength and humor radiated brightly. Everyone who had the privilege of knowing him shares a common sentiment: their lives were undoubtedly made better because he was in it.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Ruth Richmond. He is survived by his devoted wife of 46 years, Chris Richmond; daughter, Laura (Matthew) Walters; and granddaughter, Evelyn Louise Walters; sister, Beth (Jon) Couch and children, Cynthia (Jason) Bray, Jon Jr. (Lisa) Couch, Mike Couch; sister, Jane (John) Chilton and son, Lewis (Jacqueline) Chilton; sister-in-law, Carol Shorter Hart and children: Anna Hart, Alex (Hannah) Hart and Adam Hart; along with several great-nieces and great-nephews.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Covenant Health Homecare and Hospice for their compassionate support, with special thanks to his devoted nurse, Mandee Yearwood.

A memorial service celebrating Tom’s remarkable life will be held on February 19, 2026, at 2 PM at West Park Baptist Church, with visitation from 1 to 2 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to CedarBrook Outreach at 8833 Middlebrook Pike, Knoxville, TN 37923.