Thomas "Tommy" Raymond Tatom, 75, of Guthrie, Oklahoma passed away on February 7, 2025, in Oklahoma City. He was born on October 9, 1949, in Tucumcari, New Mexico to Douglas and EvaGene (Fowler) Tatom.
After graduating from high school in 1967, Tommy pursued higher education at New Mexico State University and West Texas State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree. He built a fulfilling career, eventually retiring in 2020 as a regional manager at Zinpro. Never one to sit still, he later followed his passion by founding Trav Jack, a company where he handcrafted boot jacks, a testament to his creativity and dedication.
Tommy met the love of his life, Linda Wileman, and on July 27, 1979, they began a beautiful journey together, full of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Their life together took them from Amarillo, Texas, to Guthrie, Oklahoma, where they built a home filled with warmth and cherished memories.
A man of many talents and passions, Tommy was a skilled pilot and a proud member of the Civil Air Patrol. He had an insatiable love for books, especially those about the military. Music was another of his great joys. He played the guitar with pride, cherishing his extensive collection. However, his greatest passion was his unwavering faith in his Savior, Jesus Christ. Never one to back down from a challenge, he completed seven full marathons, demonstrating his perseverance and strong spirit. Each fall, he also found joy in volunteering at the International Bluegrass Festival in Guthrie.
Above all, family was his greatest joy. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather and great-grandfather. Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 45 years, Linda, his children: Tim Tatom (Becky), Shawn Tatom (Alisa), Kendra Birchfield, and Chad Tatom, his siblings: Doug Tatom (Karen) and Christine Davis (John), as well as his six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, who were the light of his life.
Tommy was welcomed into eternity by his parents, Douglas and EvaGene Tatom, and his brother, Jimmy Tatom. Though he is no longer physically with us, his love, wisdom, and the memories he created will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
At this time, no services are planned. The family asks that in honor of Tommy's memory, you take a moment to read a good book, listen to a favorite song, or chase a dream with the same determination he carried throughout his life.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation (
t2t.org).
Arrangements are under the direction of Hayes Funeral Home in Guthrie, Oklahoma. Friends and family may sign the online guestbook at
hayesfh.com.Published by Eastern New Mexico News from Feb. 19 to Feb. 26, 2025.