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BORN
1955
DIED
2020
FUNERAL HOME
Thomas Rooks Obituary
He was born in the City of Alachua, at home on March 5, 1955 to Enoch Murrah and Ollie Mae Harris Rooks. He attended the Alachua Methodist Church in Alachua.
Tom started his career off in the Alachua Police Department. In 1981 he moved to Cedar Key where he started his career with the State of Florida Department of Natural Resources. Later he moved over to law enforcement where he retired with 32 years of service.
His hobbies included fishing, hunting turkeys, hog and deer as well as arrow heads. He loved reading and studying history.
Some knew him as Thomas, some as Tommy, his wife as Tom, son Logan as Dad, some as Uncle Tom and Friend by many.
Tom is survived by his wife of 25 ½ years, Lilly Rooks of Cedar Key; son, Logan Rooks of South Carolina; two sisters, Lora Patterson of New York and Sandra Harrison of North Carolina; stepdaughter, JoAnne Osteen of Cedar Key; two stepsons, James Hathcox of Bronson and Kalanu Helton of Chiefland; six grandkids; one great-grandchild; many nieces and nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Enoch Murrah Rooks Jr.
He will be missed by many.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Interment will be at the Shiloh Cemetery.
Mr. Rooks is under the care of the Knauff Funeral Home, Chiefland, FL (352)493-4777
In lieu of flowers the family has requested that donations be made to the Children's Table Food Bank, P.O. Box 222, Bronson, FL 32621
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Rooks
6 Entries
Alice
August 12, 2020
Tommy was my uncle, but felt more like a cousin. His adventures and stories were all always a great source of entertainment! I was very proud of the work he did to reduce the poaching of alligators and his care and kindness for those less fortunate. We are all very saddened by his passing, and sending heartfelt condolences to Lilly and Logan!
Tim Harrison
July 29, 2020
I’ll always cherish the memories from childhood summer visits to Florida to visit Uncle Tommy. In the adult years we stayed in touch through periodic phone calls. Tom was smart, funny, and knowledgeable on a wide range of topics and could tell a great story. I’ll most remember his love and respect for nature and the outdoors that certainly influenced my life. And of course his ability to find humor in all things both good and bad. He had a strong love for Family and beamed with pride over his son Logan. I will miss him. Please accept my deepest condolences Lilly and Logan.
J James Rooks, MD
July 27, 2020
It was with great sadness to hear of Tommy's passing. When I lived in Gainesville, FL, he and I were very close--riding in his 4 wheel pickup truck through the piny forests around Alachua, canoeing on the Santa Fe River, enjoying good barbecue, and talking about anything for hours just to name a few of our adventures. He had a big heart and would do anything for a friend in need. Even when I moved out to the west, he remained in touch which I really appreciated. Lilly and Logan my heart goes out to you both during this time of grief, and I extend to you my deepest sympathy. Jim Rooks Steilacoom, WA First Cousin
Sally Collins
July 27, 2020
My very deep sympathy to my friend, Lilly Rooks, and to all family and friends of Tom Rooks. May God give you strength to carry on. He fought a good battle and you gave him great care. Love to you!
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Jimmy Willis. Sr
July 27, 2020
Sorry for your loss
Jan
July 27, 2020
Tommy was my uncle, but only five years older, so more like a big brother. Every summer my family would visit and he would take my brother and I on countless adventures. He cared about family deeply and called frequently, always interested in what was going on in our lives. He was an amazing person with many talents and a kind heart. He will be missed greatly and remembered with love.
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Weems & Sons Funeral Homes - Chiefland715 West Park Avenue, Chiefland, FL 32626
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