Thomas Jackson Etheridge

Thomas “T.J.” Jackson Etheridge, age 79, passed away on February 10, 2026, at Grandview Medical Center in Birmingham, Alabama.

T.J. was born on September 27, 1946, in Selma, Alabama, to the late Dorres Jackson Etheridge and Clara Evelyn Etheridge. A lifelong resident of Selma, he built a life centered on faith, family, hard work, and devotion to those he loved most.

T.J. began his career with Auto Parts of Selma, went on to serve at Powe Auto Parts in Uniontown, and later worked with O'Reilly Auto Parts, dedicating many years to the automobile parts industry. Following a brief retirement, he returned to work at Alabama Power Sports and later at Reliable GMC. He was known for his strong work ethic, steady leadership, and integrity throughout his career.

While he valued his work, his greatest enjoyment in life was spending time with his family—especially his grandchildren. He was their number one fan, faithfully supporting and encouraging them in all their endeavors. Whether attending their events or simply spending time together, he treasured every moment. He also enjoyed fishing and traveling with his beloved wife, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Thomas had an adventurous spirit, one that he shared wholeheartedly with his beloved wife. Together, they explored the picturesque landscapes of the mountains in Nashville, but it was their trips to Orange Beach, Alabama, that truly captured their hearts. The pair cherished each moment spent watching sunsets over the white sands, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dorres Jackson Etheridge and Clara Evelyn Etheridge.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Barbara Free Etheridge; his daughters, Kerry (Allen) Henderson and Rhonda (Sam) Brown; and his five cherished grandchildren, Jackson (Grace Anne) Henderson, Brayton (Ashley) Brown, Gunnar (Katherine Lee) Henderson, Bailey Brown, Cade Henderson, brother David (Peggy) Etheridge, Ronnie (Janet) Etheridge, brother-in-law James (Cathy) Free, a niece and nephews.

Funeral services will be Friday, February 13, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. in the chapel of Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home of Selma with Pastor David Nichols officiating. Interment will follow at Pineview Memory Gardens in Valley Grande. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., prior to the service.

T.J.’s legacy is one of love, loyalty, and quiet strength. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Pallbearers will be Jackson Henderson, Brayton Brown, Gunnar Henderson, Cade Henderson , Allen Henderson, Sam Brown, James Free and K.C. Bradford.