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Thomas Leon Jackson
Thomas Leon Jackson
Obituary
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Thomas Jackson Obituary
Thomas, known as Tom, was born to Sue Ann Ransdell Jackson and Thomas Jackson in Ashland, Kentucky on December 20, 1959. Tom worked for Federal Express for many years before entering retirement. Not ready to enter full retirement, Tom began a new career driving a dump truck for Taylor Transport in Cartersville, Georgia. Tom absolutely loved being a Papaw to his two grandsons who were his pride and joy. A highlight of Tom's life was being cast on the Netflix show, "Queer Eye". He enjoyed the notoriety and shared his experience with whoever would listen!
Tom is survived by his daughter, Katie (R.J.) Phelps, two cherished grandsons, Chandler and Watson Phelps, sisters, Kozetta (Jeff) Stewart and Jackie Lynn Childers of Kentucky, as well as a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
The family would like to thank the Kennestone Hospital nursing staff, Dr. Kevin Smith (Palliative Care), Dr. Klass (Oncology), the Trauma Team, the Respiratory Care Team, and each person at Kennestone Hospital who contributed to Tom's treatment and comfort during his final days.
We will never forget our beloved Tom. He brought joy, humor, persistence, and love to our family. He is special to us, and we look forward to seeing him again one day.
The family will host a celebration of life at On the Border in Kennesaw, Georgia on Sunday, March 12th from 12 pm to 2 pm.
In lieu of flowers, please watch season 1, episode 1 of Queer Eye on Netflix and tell others about it in honor of Tom.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas, please visit our floral store.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
People and places connected with Thomas
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Amy Tolfree
February 19, 2024
Just watched his Queer Eye episode. What a beautiful man!
Dan Thompson
February 6, 2024
We just started watching Queer Eye and saw his episode. Such a beautiful soul and great man inside and out. Sorry for your loss
Tina
January 27, 2024
Watching him grow in confidence and have a beaming, proud grin on his face after his makeover in Queer Eye made me cry! What a lovely soul!
Noga Rose Sheratzky
January 25, 2024
OMG I am so shocked to hear about his passing! His episode was my favorite in season 1! You can definitely fix ugly, but he was certainly not ugly from the beginning! He seems to be an amazing beautiful person.
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Tori
July 24, 2023
Tom was such a warm, sweet man. His episode on Queer Eye really spoke to me, and helped me to have some faith in humanity again. I thought of him often and always hoped he continued to enjoy the happiness he so richly deserved. I only recently heard of his passing. I myself have recently lost my Dad. Grief is a suffering for which there are no words. I extend my love to his family and friends.
He was a beautiful person.
Thank you Tom, for sharing your life with the world.
Ronda
July 17, 2023
I fell in love with Tom! His heart brought joy to me through a mere 45 mins of his episode! Him laughing while Jonathan and Bobby were mattress shopping made me cry because he was so happy! Many prayers to the family and just remember we loved Tom!
Melissa L
July 7, 2023
Just watched this episode obviously many year later. Just read an update that he´s passed. God Bless your family and Thomas´ grandchildren. He was a really cool guy!!
Danielle Balderas
June 6, 2023
My heart breaks for the family. I may not have known him personally but when I watched his episode, I think I and the rest of world fell in love with Tom.
Lauren Stromberg
May 22, 2023
I´m so sorry to hear this. To his loves ones, thank you for sharing him with us. Thinking of you.
Cinthia
May 18, 2023
I am so so sorry. We loved you since we saw you on TV. Your energy and sympathy will always be with us. Your smile and those blue eyes will always be with us. Rest in Peace. Love from Peru
Kay
April 22, 2023
Just watched Tom's episode and couldn't help but smile throughout the show. He seemed yo be such a genuine and sweet person. May God Rest His Soul!
Julia VanHoose
April 16, 2023
I just watched Queer eye in honor of Tom Jackson. He seemed like such a sweet guy. I´ve known his sisters for years but didn´t really know Tom. They lost their parents last year and now their brother. My heart breaks for them.
Marta
March 18, 2023
Rest in peace, Tom. His legacy will go on and I'm sure he will be an example and an inspiration to other men. I wish his family strenght and peace.
Sending all my love from Italy.
Debra Morrison
March 17, 2023
To all of Tom's family and friends, I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of the man with the great smile! You can instantly tell he had a great big heart, an amazing sense of humor and awesome laugh! You could also tell he had a great family, friends and community! I hope that the beautiful memories he shared with you all helps you through this most difficult time! Please support each other as these long days pass. You are all in my thoughts and prayers!
Much love,
Debra Morrison
Clare Speakman
March 12, 2023
I loved the show and loved you Tom! Love Clare from the UK
Brett Waters
March 11, 2023
I was lucky to cross paths with Tom a couple years ago, before seeing his episode of Queer Eye. Tom was a kind and gentle spirit, which the show captured so well. In speaking with Tom, it was clear that those five men and the experiences he had on QE truly meant the world to him. He was rightfully proud of his episode's success, which was largely due to his warm personality and genuine humanity. Sending condolences to Tom's family, and love to the QE family. Rest peacefully Tom.
Andrea
March 11, 2023
I never knew Tom but I just watched his episode and I am in tears! He was hilarious and had a great laugh! My deepest condolences to his family! Having a margarita in his honor!
Brady
March 11, 2023
Tom touched so many hearts of strangers. The world loved him. If only all of us could impact so many people in our lifetimes.
S Hamilton
March 11, 2023
I recently rewatched Tom´s episode on QE and was again moved by his sweet nature. I always tear up at the end of his episode. I was sad to read of his passing and send my warm thoughts of him to his family. I think I´ll have a Redneck Margarita and a Burrito Supreme in his honor.
Al
March 11, 2023
It was evident in his Queer Eye episode how big of a heart Tom had and how wonderful of a person he truly was. His legacy will live on
Alexandra
March 10, 2023
I didn't know him but his joy and love felt evident just from that episode. I'm so glad that he got to share his story and a slice of his life. I want his family to know that he will be remembered far and wide. He will be missed.
Daniel Sobel
March 10, 2023
Only knowing Thomas through an episode of a TV show, I still was able to see his beeming smile and friendly character. His family must've been very lucky to have such an amazing person in their lives. RIP Thomas Jackson, loved by many including me.
Jessica H
March 10, 2023
I was a fan of Tom since S1E1. I'm glad the world got a chance to "meet" him and see the wonderful person that he was.
Brittney Grieser
March 10, 2023
Katie & Family - I´m so sorry to hear of your dads passing. While I never met him, I feel like I got to know him and love him through his Queer Eye episode. The world certainly lost a good one, we are praying for comfort and strength during this tough time.
Greg carrington
March 10, 2023
I just want to share my love to your loss Tom Jackson . My heart goes out to his family and friends. I don´t know him but you don´t need to know someone when it comes to loosing a life. I was up one and saw his face online I needed to shared my condolences. Stay strong family God bless sorry for your loss. Much love.
Beth Hamilton
March 9, 2023
My sincere condolences to the family. Tom was such a genuine and sweet man. I have enjoyed watching and sharing the QE episode so many times because of his genuine humanity. May you rest in peace, Tom.
Libby
March 9, 2023
Watching Tom´s episode back when it came out helped me when I was struggling with the loss of my dad (who was also 63 when he died) because Tom´s gentle spirit seemed so much like him. Sending you all my love and hoping you get comfort from how he comforted me in my grief.
Rana
March 9, 2023
Sending Prayers!
Patty
March 9, 2023
Yes, I agree he was amazing such a soft hearted person that we all saw on QE. Rest in peace. Prayers to your family and loved ones.
Kate
March 9, 2023
Raising a glass or Redneck Margarita in his honor!
Danielle L.
March 9, 2023
Sending love and condolences to Tom´s family and friends. I hope that those who loved him and shared in his gifts feel proud knowing that he made a sweet impression on so many. Tom´s episode was and will always be my favorite episode of Queer Eye. What a touching, inspiring memory shared with the world. God bless him and take him into his loving arms. May he rest in peace in the kingdom of heaven. Fly high.
Veronica Avila
March 9, 2023
I will rewatch for you, Thomas. R.I.P. my condolences to his family.
Liz S (fan from Texas)
March 9, 2023
We felt like we really got to know and befriended Tom! You will be missed
Erin S McCarkel
March 9, 2023
My condolences. Tom always reminded me so much of my father, and his story on QE was so so special to me. May he rest peacefully.
The Johnson-Fry Clan
March 9, 2023
May The Lord hold his family in His loving arms! Rest easy Tom! I'm glad I got to watch your episode! Love from The Johnson-Fry clan in Pennsylvania.
James Bicaldo
March 9, 2023
Sending my love and condolences to Tom´s family and loved ones. I´ve seen this episode twice, and his story touched me in so many ways - he is and will always be an angel. Rest in peace Tom
Karen W - Canada
March 9, 2023
I just watched this show and this episode for the first time a couple weeks ago and I just loved Tom... he was the sweetest guy and the show was well done! I actually watched it twice. My deepest sympathies to your family during this difficult time.
Rachel
March 9, 2023
My sincere condolences to Toms family and friends. He touched so many hearts including mine during his time on QE. He seemed like such a kind and joyous person. Rest In Peace you precious man.
Ms. Lee
March 9, 2023
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Anonymous
March 9, 2023
My husband and I did not know Tom personally but were moved by his Queer Eye episode. He exuded an energy that the world desperately needs more of. Our sincerest condolences to Tom's family and a deep thank you for sharing a piece of him with the rest of the world.
Jaimee Cleghorn
March 9, 2023
I have watched the episode and loved Tom! What an amazing man. My thoughts and prayers are with you!
Jim and Natalie Vandenbos
March 9, 2023
Tom was a long time customer of ours and it was always a joy to see him walk into our store for his dozen jalapeño bagels with extra pepper flakes and no holes. He brought joy to so many with his wonderful smile and his charisma. He will be missed so much by us. Sending deepest condolences to Tom´s family.
Art´s Bagels and More
Alice
March 9, 2023
I was so moved by Tom's episode of Queer Eye, and sad to hear of his loss. He touched so many people and seemed like such a wonderful person.
Anonymous
March 9, 2023
My deepest sympathies to Tom´s family. I never got to meet him, but loved watching him on Queer Eye. He was such a lovely person in every way. Rest in peace Tom.
Autumn Du apré
March 9, 2023
I was never fortunate to have met Tom but he seemed like such a happy, joyful, and kind man. My deepest condolences to his friends and family. Rest in Peace Tom. xx
Amy G
March 9, 2023
Sending love to Tom's family. His appearance on Queer Eye was such an inspiration. He was humble, vulnerable, and all dude all at the the same time. His story was so encouraging to those of us who have lost hope along the way. I love how he embraced positive change, even if it may have been uncomfortable. RIP Tom.
Anonymous
March 9, 2023
Sending love and condolences. may he rest in peace. I will never forget Tom´s episode, it was the best one!
Sebrina R.
March 9, 2023
A truly beautiful, compassionate soul who inspired so many. Sending all my love and deepest condolences to Tom´s friends and family. His memory will be held in the highest regards.
Melissa
March 9, 2023
He was a real one, he touched many hearts in QE1, I cried buckets I was so charmed and moved by his "makeover". All condolences to his family and friends, especially to his daughter. Love and peace
Lucy C
March 9, 2023
Will be raising a glass to Tom, I loved his episode of Queer Eye. Came across as such a genuinely lovely human.
Peggy
March 9, 2023
My condolences to Tom's family. We watched Queer Eye from the beginning and we loved Tom. I'm glad he had the joy of being on there with those wonderful guys and we'll watch again in his memory.
Lexy
March 9, 2023
Tom was such a lovely lovely man. Having him on Queer Eye during a time of mourning my father brought me so much happiness. I felt like my own pop got a second chance. May he rest and leave a legacy as big as his heart! Prayers to the family. You all were blessed to know and love him.
Theresa Smith
March 9, 2023
So Sorry To Hear This Sad News. May He Rest In In Peace In Gods Unchanging Hands ...
zakaria
March 9, 2023
I'm sorry for your loss. I bet he was a good person zakaria james is my name call 9123288806 if you want to talk to me.
Stacy G
March 9, 2023
I'm so sad to hear of Tom's passing. Gone too soon. His Queer Eye episode was one I will never forget and stood out from all others. Not only because I lived in Kennesaw but because Tom's transformation and openness to the Queer Eye family was an example of how similar we all really are. Tom found himself during his time with the fab 5. He was NEVER ugly ... he was adorable! Tom was fun, accepting and deeply loved his daughter and grandsons. I will forever remember Tom. Thank you for sharing him with us all. Let him be an example to us all of how similar we all are on this earth. Be kind.
TG
March 9, 2023
I enjoyed watching his episode so much, he was such a lovely guy and I'm so sorry for your family's loss. May he rest in peace
Donna
March 9, 2023
I loved Tom´s episode of Queer Eye - he seemed like a lovely warm individual and I am truly sorry for your loss.
Jo
March 9, 2023
I watched Tom´s episode of Queer Eye and just loved the way he embraced everything the guys threw at him! So sorry to the family. Fly high and rest easy Tom. From Jo in England
Kylie Corbett
March 9, 2023
Tom, my heart goes out to your family during this hard time. I was so inspired by you and found joy watching you become the best version of yourself. Your heart did not go unnoticed and I am thankful that Queer Eye showed who you are to the rest of the world. Rest easy, brother <3
Ashley R
March 9, 2023
I'm so sorry to hear of the loss of Tom. I wanted to share that his episode on Queer Eye is a family favorite- my loved ones and I quote him from the show all the time. He has touched even people he hadn't met- we will continue to remember him, his caring self and fun personality. All the love to his family <3
Melissa Mattson
March 9, 2023
I am going to watch the show to honor Tom. I just saw this news on TMZ and got a feeling from his pictures alone that he was such a fun loving, teddy bear guy. He reminds me of my Dad. You have a great family, I know he left this earth knowing he was loved by so many.
Erica
March 9, 2023
I have been sick and at home the past couple days. Last night, I wanted to watch queer eye. After shifting through the numerous seasons I opted for starting at the beginning, and only watched the pilot, only to wake up to the news today. Mr. Jackson´s personality is what makes the episode so beautiful; while he may have gone in to it with not as much love for himself you can truly see the openness and willingness that he shows accepting help from the fab five. His down to earth demeanor and childlike joy going through the experience is the catalyst for hope that is exactly what the show needed from a pilot episode; thank you for sharing yourself and your red neck margaritas with us all.
Kim Herzing
March 9, 2023
Sorry for your loss. Watching his Episode. What a great guy. Looks like he enjoyed every moment.
Flor
March 9, 2023
My condolences to the family. Kind man, I watched the show and he was one of my favorites. Rest in Peace
Leslie
March 9, 2023
We watched Tom on Queer Eye and fell completely in love with him! He was so lovable and joyful that you just couldn't help but love him. I know his grands & daughter will miss him. Rest in peace sir
Iliff Morris
March 9, 2023
Just saw on tv queer eyes he seems very nice guy and prayers for all family and friends
S
March 9, 2023
Have a cowboy margarita up there for all of us who got to know and adore you through Queer Eye, Tom. Sending so much love and light to Tom's loved ones. x
Maureen H
March 9, 2023
My sincerest condolences to all who love and mourn Tom. Such a lovely man who became an icon through Queer Eye. In his honor, I am rewatching his episode and praying for his eternal peace.
Lizzie M
March 9, 2023
rest in peace. i haven´t watched the show in years but tom´s episode stands out in my memory and i even remember sharing with others. sad to hear we lost a good one, a kind soul who i´m sure will be deeply missed
Taylor
March 9, 2023
What a wonderful, wonderful human being. I am so sorry for your loss, rest in peace Tom we love you and your kindness will never be forgotten.
Sam Youngs
March 9, 2023
I didn't know Tom personally but I've always thought about him ever since I saw his episode of Queer Guy. He was a truly bright soul and he made me smile. Rest in Peace Tom! That twinkle in your eye is surely a new star in the night sky now.
Sara
March 9, 2023
I would like extend my deepest condolences to your loved ones I´m a fan who enjoyed Toms episode was so happy to see him so full of love and full of joy
Many blessing to your family
Heather H
March 8, 2023
I loved his episode! He was such a lovely, lovely guy. My condolences to his family on the tremendous loss of this shining light. RIP Tom.
Nicole
March 8, 2023
So sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing a piece of him with the world. I loved his episode of queer eye. His joy spilled through the tv screen. His openness for change, humour and love for life was heart warming. Wishing all of his family comfort in this time.
Ashley Lynn
March 8, 2023
I send my condolences from Minnesota to Tom´s family
I watched him on his episode of Queer Eye, which is still my favorite episode.
Even through the TV you could tell how big his heart was.
Rest in peace Tom
Jay
March 8, 2023
His episode was one of my favorites. His episode started the show in a spectacular way. Thank you for letting us be a part of his story. May he rest in peace
Robin
March 8, 2023
Tom's episode of Queer Eye brought me joy and comfort during a difficult time in my life. It's clear he was such a kind and joyful soul. Rest easy, Tom, you will be remembered by so many people around the world who fell in love with you through Queer Eye.
Desirae
March 8, 2023
I will forever remember when that first tear rolled down my face when the introduced Tom on Queer Eye. I obviously didn´t know him, but after feeling his kindness, gentility, and how genuine of a person he is I sure wanted to. That will forever live in my heart. I hope Tom is met with smiles at heavens door like he deserves
Paula R
March 8, 2023
I really enjoyed your dad on Queer Eye... He seemed like a wonderful person. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Fiona
March 8, 2023
Toms episode gave us a glimpse of what a sweet, kindhearted man he was. He adored his friends and family. Thank you for sharing his story with us. May he rest in peace.
Tamara Dawn Williams
March 8, 2023
The episode of Queer Eye with Tom in it is one of my favorites. You could tell how genuine he was and how much what the guys taught him changed his life. Rest in Peace Tom. Praying for comfort for your loved ones. May your good heart and sense of humor live on in your beautiful grandsons.
Vivian
March 8, 2023
I'm so sorry for your loss. Tom's episode is one of my favorites from that season. Such a wonderful man with a heart of gold. I'm so sorry.
anonymous
March 8, 2023
sending lots of love and support
Rachel
March 8, 2023
I´m so sorry for your loss. His episode of Queer Eye is forever my favorite, he was so full of joy.
Nicole C.
March 8, 2023
Tom´s episode is one of my favorites, his sweetness and joy just radiated. Thank you for sharing him with us all
Olivia Secco
March 8, 2023
From his episode alone, you can tell Tom was joyous and loved every person in his life dearly. I`m glad he went comfortably and had loved ones near. My condolences to his family.
Maureen Walker
March 8, 2023
So very sorry for your family´s loss / thank you for sharing his beautiful smile, heart and soul with us ! May he fly high !
M
March 8, 2023
Im so sorry for your loss. I cried the first time I saw his episode. You can tell he was such a special soul
Margarita Elefsiades
March 8, 2023
May you RIP. I saw you on Queer eye you were great
Morgan B
March 8, 2023
I remember your episode of Queer Eye. I cried watching your growth on that show. Rest easy from your suffering and God bless your family.
Melissa
March 8, 2023
My sincere condolences to Tom's family and friends. I never met him only from seeing him on the Queer Eye show. In all the shows seasons he was my all time favorite person. So sorry about him passing.
K.
March 8, 2023
So sad to hear of this loss. Condolences to his family, and I thank him for being a source of joy and the start to a series beloved by many. He was a character of joy. Sleep in peace, sir.
Nicole Paradiso
March 8, 2023
Rest easy sweet Tom. The world was better with you in it. We will watch your Queer Eye episode to honor you.
Cye
March 8, 2023
Thank you for sharing him with us! Peace and condolences to the family.
Jocelyn Durand
March 8, 2023
What a beautiful sentiment to watch his episode in lieu of flowers. I´m going to watch it with my husband and remember a beautiful soul.
Sarah
March 8, 2023
I didn´t know Tom in person but watching him on Queer Eye was a wonderful experience and you could tell how absolutely loved and wonderful he was. I am so sorry the world lost a beautiful soul so soon
Lisa
March 8, 2023
This is so sad to hear. The star of my favorite episode of Queer Eye ever. He touched so many lives through that episode. He will not be forgotten. My condolences to his family and all that loved him.
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