Thomas L. Atherton

Learning independence at an early age he stretched the truth about his age to join the Army at 16, the end of WWII. On his return from France and Germany, he attended Samford University with a degree in Economics, and stumbled into Air Force Officer Training School.

A member of the MAC 3rd Squadron, he was a Navigator and a Pilot; touring Korea, Vietnam, Thailand and stationed in many US military bases. His longest assignment was at Charleston AFB where he lived with his first wife, Gayla Devours Atherton and where their three children grew up. In Charleston he flew B52, C124 and C5A airplanes. His assignment in McGuire AFB had him serving as interim Base Commander. Tom always said he should have paid the Air Force because he had so much fun! His service was recognized with numerous awards, including two Meritorious Service Medals, the Air Medal, and the Air Force Commendation Medal.

Tom had the choice to remain on track to become a General, but he and his second wife, Judy Haischer Atherton decided to leave the Air Force. They took off in a motorhome traveling between Mexico and Wisconsin for years. Settling in Panama City Beach, FL., the most beautiful beaches in the US, according to Tom, he joined Bay Point Realty and began another successful career for many fun-filled years. Tom and Judy eventually chose Blue Skies Air Force Retirement Village in San Antonio, TX. to be closer to family and the Air Force lifestyle. Tom and Judy enjoyed their lives together immensely, wherever they were!

Tom enjoyed boating, fishing, and “glamping” all of his life, along with a new car every year!Nicknamed “Terrible Tom” for his direct, get it done, officer attitude and perhaps for his loud, aggressive party attitude, he was mostly a charming and gracious southern gentleman. He wanted everyone to feel comfortable and always made others feel appreciated, heard and always a little better about themselves. He loved every woman he ever met and let them all know how beautiful they were. Until the end, he continued to spread his love to all.

Dinners spent with Tom were a real treat. Gin and tonic in hand, he always made everybodylaugh and he was the life of the party. Tom was known by all his friends and family for beingextremely generous with his time and money. He never let another person pick up the tab atdinner and always remembered to call or send a card for birthdays and holidays.

Tom loved his life, friends, and family deeply and enjoyed every moment of his 94 years. The Colonel is flying high now!

He is preceded in death by his wife, Judy Haischer Atherton, his former wife, Gayla Devours Atherton, and his son Thomas Lee Atherton, Jr. He is survived by his daughters, Lynda “Elana” Atherton Bluestone, Leeann Atherton, his grandchildren, Cliff Atherton, Austin Atherton, and Mason Bolton and his great grandchildren Sierra Atherton and Sammy Atherton.

Interment with military honors will take place at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio on Friday, May 19, 2023, at 1pm. A memorial celebration will follow at 3600 S. 2nd, Austin, TX 78704 at 7pm.

Memorials may be made in his honor to Air Force Villages Charitable Foundation or to a charity of your choice.