Thomas Crockett

With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to a remarkable man, Thomas Joe Crockett, Sr. of Ten Mile, TN. He was born on March 4, 1940, and passed away peacefully at home on October, 17, 2023.

He was a graduate of McMinn County High School in 1958 where he played both football and baseball. He was a talented athlete playing multiple positions including fullback, defensive end and punter. He rarely left the field during a game. Tommy received multiple SEC Football scholarship offers and ultimately signed with the University of Florida. He also attended ETSU and TWC.

After learning the trade from his dad, Tommy was a successful home builder before becoming the owner and operator of Euchee Boat Dock on Watts Bar Lake from 1967-1981, 1984-1988 with his wife, Barbara, and parents for 18 years where he created a family environment where guests made cherished memories. After selling the Boat Dock he founded Thomas and James Construction, building houses for more than 20 years with his son, Tim.

He had a passion for being near the water where he lived, boated, and fished with his grandchildren. His love for water extended beyond the shores of Watts Bar Lake, as he enjoyed deep sea fishing off the coasts of Florida.

Our Dad touched the lives of countless people through his strength, love, and unwavering dedication tohis family. He was a larger-than-life figure who fearlessly stood up for his beliefs, leaving an undeniable mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Tommy's greatest joy came from being a loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and most recently, a great grandfather. He possessed an unparalleled capacity for selflessness, always going out of his way to spend quality time with his grandchildren. His presence was a guiding light, however stubborn and sometimes bossy, providing support, wisdom, and an abundance of love to each generation.

Today, as we mourn the loss of Thomas Joe Crockett, we hold dear the memories of his unwavering strength, his genuine care for his family, and his remarkable legacy. May his spirit forever inspire us to stand tall, love deeply, and cherish the bonds that tie us together. In our hearts, he will forever remain an irreplaceable pillar of love, strength, and devotion.

He was proceeded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Ann Collins Crockett, son Thomas Joe Crockett, Jr, parents, James Thomas and Hazel Howell Crockett, sisters, Jimmye (Vance) Baker, Mary (Johnny) Curtis, infant brother, William Howell Crockett, and special friend, Patsy Hayes.

He is survived by his devoted daughter, Connye (Monty) Rowland, son, Tim (Wanda) Crockett, daughter-in-law, Sue Crockett, grandchildren, Matthew Crockett, Jake (Lindsey) Rowland, Makena, Katie, Kylie, Cannon and Cade Crockett, great granddaughter, Renley Rowland, sister, Cindy (Bill) Torrence, and many nieces and nephews.

The family will be receiving family and friends for a grave side service at Ceder Grove Cemetery in Athens, TN on Monday, October 23, 2023 at 12pm. Companion Funeral Home of Athens has graciously assisted the family with these arrangements.