Thomas Sligh Stribling

Tom Stribling passed away January 31, 2024. He was born on December 8, 1942, in Guntersville, AL, to the late Thomas S. and Kathleen Stribling. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Joyce, two daughters, Christine, and Tracy Franklin (Kevin) of Scaly Mountain, GA., his granddaughter, Taylor Rickert, his sister, Mary Kate Beard (Randy), brother, Bill Stribling (Jera)
In 1965, he received a B.S. Degree from the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa. AL, with a major in marketing. In 1989, he graduated from the Stanford University Executive Program.
Following college, he joined the Navy and received his commission through Officer Candidate School. He spent approximately two years at sea (USS Northampton), and two years teaching Electronic Warfare in San Diego, CA. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Lieutenant Commander.
Tom had more than 30 years experience in the health care and pharmaceutical industries. He began as a sales representative for Pfizer, Inc., and spent several years in positions of increasing responsibility in sales and sales management. He held senior level positions (President or Chairman) in start-up, turnaround and fast growth companies that were privately and publicly owned. Companies he led traditionally reached successful and profitable liquidity through sale to larger corporations.
He was a lifelong Christian, and loved the Lord. Over his life, he attended several churches, and most recently, was a dedicated member of Highlands First Baptist Church in Highlands, NC. In previous times, he was a Deacon and Elder of St. Luke's Presbyterian Church, Dunwoody, GA, and served on many committees of Highlands United Methodist Church, including chairing the
Fundraising Committee as it build a new Fellowship Center in Highlands, NC. His christening, and church during his early years was First Presbyterian Church, Guntersville, AL
Outside of his professional life, Tom was a dedicated runner for many years. He completed two marathons, several half marathons and numerous ten thousand meter races, including 29 Peachtree Road Races. Once his running days ended, he begin to ride a bike, and finished the Bike Ride Across Georgia (Columbus to Savannah) in 2007
Tom's warm and engaging personality left a lasting impact on those who were fortunate to know him. His smile will be missed by many, and his memory will forever be cherished.
Since many of his friends live long distances from Highlands, Tom asked that a memorial service not be held. Instead, he asked his friends to take a few moments to remember all the good times they had together.
The family is planning a Celebration of Life for Tom in the coming spring. Details will be shared closer to that time.
Online condolences can be left at www.bryantgrantfuneralhome.com
Bryant-Grant Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the Stribling family.