Charles Raymond Thom

March 23, 1949 – June 20, 2026

Senior Master Sergeant Charles Raymond Thom, known lovingly to family and friends as Charlie, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2026, in Tampa, Florida with his family at his side. He was 77 years old. Charlie lived a life defined by service, devotion to family, and an unwavering love for his country.

Born on March 23, 1949, in Oakland, California, Charlie grew up in Tampa, Florida, where he developed a lifelong passion for mechanics and leadership. Following his high school graduation, he proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force, dedicating 24 years of honorable service to his nation.

As an aircraft mechanic and crew chief, Charlie worked and flew on B-52s and KC-135s. Through hard work, technical expertise, and steadfast commitment, he earned the rank of Senior Master Sergeant. Beyond his official duties, Charlie was a natural mentor, friend, and role model who took young troops under his wing and shaped the lives of countless service members.

For his distinguished 24 years of service, Senior Master Sergeant Thom was highly decorated. His military awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (with 4 bronze oak leaf clusters), and the Air Force Good Conduct Medal (with 1 silver oak leaf cluster). He was also awarded the National Defense Service Medal (with 1 bronze service star), Air Force Overseas Long Tour Ribbon, Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon (with 1 silver oak leaf cluster), NCO Professional Military Education Graduate Ribbon (with 1 bronze oak leaf cluster), Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon (with 1 bronze service star), and the Air Force Training Ribbon.

On July 27, 1968, Charlie married the love of his life, Anne Louise Deitz. Together, they shared nearly 58 years of deep devotion and adventure, navigating the military lifestyle through assignments in Altus, Oklahoma (where they were stationed three separate times); Tampa, Florida; Riverside, California; Andersen Air Force Base in Guam; and Warner Robins, Georgia. After retiring from the military, Charlie also furthered his education, earning a Bachelor of Science in Electronic Engineering Technology.

Outside of his uniform, Charlie was a man of action and passion. He spent years building and racing stock cars and riding motorcycles. He played football in high school

and semi-pro with the Anderson Bombers and Warner Robins Flyers. He was also deeply involved in the Boy Scouts of America as a boy scout and adult leader. A proud moment in his later years was seeing his grandsons follow in his footsteps by attending the historic Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico.

Charlie was best known for his sharp sense of humor, trademark sarcasm, immense kindness, and unwavering honesty. Whenever he was playfully blamed for a wrongdoing or causing trouble, he would quickly reply with a straight face, "Who, me? I am pure as driven snow, a pillar of the community." An eternal optimist, he faced life’s challenges without complaint, only focused on what is next, and always lifting the spirits of those around him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Willie Vesta “Billie” Thom.

He is survived and deeply missed by his beloved wife, Anne Thom; his children, Teresa Thom Highley and her husband Robert “Bob,” and Charles William Thom and his wife Sharon; and his cherished grandchildren, Robert Charles “Bob” Highley and Thomas Michael “Tommy” Highley.

Charlie’s legacy of integrity, service, and love will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the many airmen he mentored.

Isaiah 40:31 But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Services: A graveside ceremony with full military honors will be rendered at 11:00 AM on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Myrtle Hill Memorial Park, located at 4202 E Lake Ave, Tampa, Florida. Following the cemetery service, a time with his family to celebrate Charlie's life will follow directly across the street at Blount & Curry Funeral Home at Garden of Memories, located at 4207 E Lake Avenue, Tampa, Florida. All who knew and loved Charlie are welcome to attend.