Thomas Lumpkin Vittitow

Thomas Lumpkin Vittitow obituary, Owensboro, KY

Thomas Lumpkin Vittitow

Thomas Vittitow Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by James H. Davis Funeral Home and Crematory - Owensboro on Mar. 16, 2024.
Thomas Lumpkin Vittitow "Tom", 77, of Owensboro, KY, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2024, at TriStar Centennial Hospital in Nashville, TN. Tom was a pillar of the community, known for his unwavering dedication to service and his warm, welcoming demeanor. Throughout his life, Tom wore many hats with grace and distinction. He served as a respected police officer, a devoted teacher at Apollo High School, and a visionary Regional Director at Kentucky Educational Television, leaving an indelible mark in each role.
Affectionately referred to as the "mayor" of Owensboro, Tom had a gift for connecting with people from all walks of life. His genuine interest in others made him a beloved figure in the community. Tom's zest for life was infectious, and he cherished every moment spent with family and friends.
A true adventurer at heart, Tom found joy in exploring new places, enjoying Jimmy Buffett tunes, and sharing hearty laughs over Friday lunch dates with his closest companions. Above all, he treasured the time spent with his family, finding immense pride and joy in his role as a father and grandfather.
Preceded in death by his brother, Robert "Bob" Vittitow, Tom is survived by his beloved companion, Audrey Mezur of Owensboro. He is also survived by his loving children, Thomas Vittitow II (Christa) of Powder Springs, GA, and Nicki Hurd (Jason) of Haymarket, VA. Nieces and nephew Christina O'Bryan, Kay Phillips (Will), Jean Allen (Christopher), David Michael Vittitow. Tom's legacy lives on through his cherished grandchildren, Violet and Charlotte Hurd, and Thomas Vittitow III "Trey".
Tom's memory will be forever cherished by his extended family, including his "adopted" children and grandchildren Tina, Hunter, Lacey, Naomi, Isaac, Leah (Mager), Mary Katherine, Austin, Ethan (Gough), Brian Kim, Tyler, Emily, Tanner, and Tucker (Mezur).
A celebration of Tom's life will be at Noon on Friday, March 22, 2024 at James H. Davis Funeral Home & Crematory. Visitation is from 3-7 p.m. on Thursday and from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. on Friday at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that expressions of sympathy be made in the form of donations to Joe Ford Nature Park, 3870 W. 2nd St., Owensboro, KY 42301.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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December 3, 2025

Timothy Smith posted to the memorial.

December 3, 2025

Timothy Smith posted to the memorial.

March 19, 2024

Timothy Smith posted to the memorial.

3 Entries

Timothy Smith

December 3, 2025

Tom always had an affinity for the Dairy Drive Inn or as it was fondly referred to the DDI on Frederica Street.

Timothy Smith

December 3, 2025

The first photo includes Gayla, Nicki, Tee and Tom at my parents home in 1980. The second and third photos are at Owensboro Middle School, for an educational documentary Tom was coordinating for KET in 1984.

Timothy Smith

March 19, 2024

I was profoundly heartbroken to hear of the passing of one of my best friends and mentors. I first came to know Tom in August 1969, my family having moved back to Owensboro from Aurora Ohio on Memorial Day. As a seventh grade student at Apollo Junior High School-then Apollo High School. A person who realized my potential, never letting me forget that. During his brief tenure as a police officer in Owensboro, I was privileged to accompany him on ride alongs. Then his second career as an educational consultant for KET, O. Leonard Press, Executive Director of KET spoke highly of Tom’s drive and passion in pursuit of excellence in education. I felt like an adopted member of the family. Invited to holiday celebrations, being at the hospital on the night of his son Tee’s arrival into the world.. then Nikki. Their two Boxers, Lady and Liberty. I would be remiss without mentioning Gayla’s compassion and concern as I frequently sought medical advice from her. In conclusion, my love and best wishes for Tee and Nikki during this profound loss. The world is a better place because of their father, Thomas L. Vittitow.

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James H. Davis Funeral Home and Crematory - Owensboro

3009 Frederica Street, Owensboro, KY 42301

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December 3, 2025

Timothy Smith posted to the memorial.

December 3, 2025

Timothy Smith posted to the memorial.

March 19, 2024

Timothy Smith posted to the memorial.