Tommie J Anderson

Tommie J Anderson, age 93, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday, September 3, 2024.

He is survived by his son, Lyle (Sallie), daughter, Sheila (Rich); granddaughters, Melissa (Cephus), Jennifer (Jon), Rebecca (Matt), Jackie (Chris) and Denise; 13 great-grandchildren; sister, Imogene "Sunshine" Williams; and closest friend and partner, Evonna Joiner.

Tommie was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Melba Jean; parents, James Maxwell and Juanita Anderson and sister, Maxine Brannon.

In 1946 after the war, Tommie moved with his family to Albuquerque for the "high, dry climate". He completed 9th grade and then went to work. He worked at various jobs including truck driving and logging. He met, courted and married Melba after she graduated high school in 1951. He was also drafted into the Marine Corps in 1951. After boot camp in California, he shipped out to Korea to participate in the Korean Conflict returning in 1953. They had their son Lyle in 1954 and daughter, Sheila in 1958. After returning to civilian life he worked learning the refrigeration trade and in 1961 created what would become Anderson Air Conditioning Company. Tommie and Melba joined the local Poco Quatros Model A Ford Club in the early 1970's and became members of other antique auto clubs. He and Melba retired in 1996 and traveled in their motor homes, Model A Fords and other antique vehicles. They participated in The Great American Race with the Joiners of Rio Rancho and went on many car tours and journeys across the United States. In his lifetime, he collected, drove, traded and sold many old automobiles and trucks. Tommie was a good son, husband, father, grandfather, employer, businessman and friend. He will be sorely missed by his family and friends. Another Good Man rides into the sunset.

Happy Trails To You...Until We Meet Again.

He will be interred at the Santa Fe National Cemetery with his wife Melba.

A Memorial Service will be held:

Friday, November 15, 2024 at 11:00 am

FRENCH - Westside: 9300 Golf Course Rd. NW Albuquerque, NM At 11:00 am

It will be streamed for those who cannot attend.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: The Gilmore Car Museum (www.GilmoreCarMuseum.org), or the charity of your choice.