Tommy Franklin Story

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tommy Franklin Story, born on November 23, 1947, in Houston, MO, to Jessie and Lila (Mayberry) Story.
Tommy developed a lifelong love for the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman who loved spending time in the woods and often reminisced about rabbit hunting and raising hounds with his father as a child. He loved old cars - fixing them, talking about them, and teaching others what he knew. And if you ever went car shopping with him, you knew he was a force to be reckoned with. He gladly shared his love of baseball, from playing in school to tossing a ball in the front yard with his girls, to watching the games on TV.
Tommy honorably served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, distinguishing himself through his bravery and dedication. His service was recognized with numerous commendations, including the Purple Heart for being wounded in action, two Bronze Stars with an additional award denoted by an oak leaf cluster, and a Battalion Citation. He was also a recipient of the Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB), the Infantry Blue Cord, and a Sharpshooter Qualification Badge. His awards also include a badge for his service with the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) and a patch for his time with the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam (MACV).
He worked for ConAgra for many years, where he made countless friends. He especially enjoyed working for his brother-in-law as a logger, where he could spend time in the woods - and could name every tree - while joking and laughing with the guys. There wasn't much he couldn't fix - cars, lawn mowers, washing machines - he always found a way to make things run again.
Tommy is survived by his two sisters, Millie Wooten (Robert) and Patty Boze (Chet); two daughters, Lila Story (Dale Craig) and Pam Smith (Jason); and three stepchildren, Donald Key (Marci), Linda Sundermeyer, and Melody Kenny (Mitch). He also leaves behind many grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends who will all cherish his memory.
He was preceded in death by his parents Jessie and Lila Story; five siblings, Lavina Jennings, Lula Sutton, Judy Wray, Mary Mummy and Sammy Story; 15 half siblings; and his daughter, Lydia Franceine Story.
Tommy's life was a testament to his service, his humor, and his passion for family and the natural world. He was known for his quick wit and his ability to make anyone laugh.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Graveside service, with full military honors, will be 1:00 pm, Monday, November 24, 2025, at the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville, MO. Visitation will be from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, Monday, at the Hutton & McElwain Funeral Home in Macon, MO.