William Thomas 'Tom' Rector

Mr. William Thomas 'Tom' Rector, Jr., age 79, of Dalton, Georgia, passed away peacefully in his home on Monday, January 26, 2026.

Tom was born on Sunday, June 30, 1946, in Rockwood, Tennessee, to the late Mr. William Thomas 'Billy' Rector, Sr., and the late Mrs. Amanda Jane Rector.

One of Tom's greatest passions in life was coaching.  An avid sports fan, he coached the Tunnel Hill Reds for 10 years, and developed numerous meaningful, lasting relationships with his players who were truly an extension of his family.  Outside of sports and his love for coaching, Tom was also a member of the Tunnel Hill Lions Club.

In addition to his parents, Tom is preceded in death by his sisters, Louise Moore and Elizabeth 'Liz' Richardson; his in-laws, Willard and Mary Holloway; and his precious grandson, William Tyler 'Will' Rector.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Mrs. Linda Joyce Rector, whom he married on Sunday, February 9, 1969.

Tom is further survived by his sons, Jeff (Renee) Rector and Tommy (Jessica) Rector, as well as his daughters, Tina Rivers, Michele Townsend, Angie Mashburn, and Shanda (Seth) Short.  He is also survived by his ten grandchildren: Patten Rector, Tristian Ray, Kennedy (Dylan) Viars, Tanner Jackson, Sypher Barkley, Todrick (Heather) Rivers, Brittany (Kaiser) Simpson, Luke (Katherine) Rector, Jacob (Brittany) Rector, and Amanda (Karavin) Dew.  He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Doug (Darla) Holloway, as well as his great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Friends are cordially invited to visit with Tom's family on Friday, February 6, 2026, from 5:30 P.M. until 7:30 P.M. at Love Funeral Home.

Condolences and messages of sympathy may be expressed for Tom's family through Love Funeral Home's online guestbook.