Thomas Alan Treadwell

Thomas "Tommy" Alan Treadwell, age 82, of Knoxville, Tennessee, passed away peacefully in his home on January 21, surrounded by family, following a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Born on October 16, 1943, in Charleston, West Virginia, Thomas graduated from Stonewall Jackson High School in 1961, where he was voted Best Dressed. The day after graduation, he answered the call to duty and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving on active duty from 1961 to 1965. He served in the Reserves from 1965 to 1972. He proudly lived by the motto, "Once a Marine, always a Marine."

Thomas was known for his fearless spirit and unwavering commitment to serving others. In 1967, he married the love of his life, Donna Dent Treadwell, and together they shared forty-eight wonderful years of marriage. He found great pride and joy in his family and was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and cherished friend to many. Everyone who knew him loved him greatly. He was a man of remarkable strength, shown not only in his perseverance through life's challenges, but in the steady love and support he gave to those around him. His humor was infectious, and he delighted in teasing those he held dearest.

He had a deep love for adventure and a passion for deer hunting, fishing, hiking, and exploring the beauty of the outdoors. His love of big game hunting led to many memorable adventures and treasured trophies. Thomas was a man of strong values and faith that guided his life. He was also a longtime business owner, having owned and operated the Country Table Restaurant in Knoxville, Tennessee, for 25 years.

Thomas is survived by his daughter, Tracy Okal; his granddaughter and grandson-in-law, Kaitlyn Grantham and her husband, Blake; and his son and daughter-in-law, Todd Treadwell and his wife, Jennifer, all of Knoxville. He also leaves behind many other loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Surviving him as well is his sister, Jo Ann Pickering of Columbia, South Carolina, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

Known for his love of animals, Thomas is also survived by his faithful dogs, Buck, Buddy, and Bronson, who brought him great joy and companionship.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Donna Dent Treadwell; his parents, Gladys Staab Treadwell and Thomas B. Treadwell; his son, Thomas Alan Treadwell Jr.; his brothers, Raymond Staab; his sister-in-law Becky Staab; Thomas Treadwell and Stephen Treadwell.

We will gather to celebrate his life and receive friends at the Lyons View Veterans Cemetery on February 20th at 1:00pm. The address is 5901 Lyons View Pike, 37919. There will be a private family burial preceding.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor his legacy with a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, whose work brings hope and healing to children battling cancer.