Gary Thomas Walters "Tom"
October 9, 1951 - July 12, 2025
Gary Thomas Walters, affectionately known as Tom, passed away on July 12, 2025, at the age of 73. Born on October 9, 1951, in Salyersville, Kentucky, to James and Elsie Walters, Tom was a devoted partner, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.
Tom resided in Cleveland, TN and he spent over 30 years working with RetubeCo out of Ooltewah, TN where he was known for his strong work ethic and reliability. Over the decades, he formed many close friendships with coworkers who became like family. Through working at RetubeCo, Tom met one of his greatest friends, Sam Crist, who he would frequently talk to and go to lunch with. His loyalty and willingness to help others left a lasting mark on everyone around him.
Outside of work, Tom was an avid bow hunter who found peace in the outdoors. He had a deep love for nature, spending his days tending to his beloved dog, Maddie, and working on his property. His passion for being outside reflected his appreciation for simple joys and hands-on living. He had a passion for good food and he loved dining out and being with his family on weekends.
He is survived by his loving partner of 43 years Vickie Hills, his daughter Stacey Carden (Logan Swafford), and his cherished grandchildren, Jake (Sofia) Carden and Katie Carden (Luke Anziano). Tom is also survived by his brother Roger (Helen) Walters and nephew Tommy (Tabitha) Walters and great niece Raven along with great nephew Dakota.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Elsie Walters.
Tom will be remembered as a hardworking, generous man who never hesitated to lend a helping hand. His quiet strength, kind heart, and steadfast presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Per his wishes, no services will be held
2412 Georgetown Rd NW P.O. Box 5057, Cleveland, TN 37311
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreYou may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read moreThese free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read moreSome basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreSponsored