I became acquainted with Tommy in the l940'S. He and I attended New Bethel Assembly of God Church. He came with his grandmother, Mrs. Lonnie Bass. Later, we were in the same grade at Fort Smith Junior and Senior High Schools and were in their band program. I recall how he enjoyed "laying rubber" at the corner of North 23rd and "C" Streets when he drove a l948 Chevy. Of course, we all had heavy feet in those days of youth. In 1957 the Fort Smith Senior High School band marched in the inaugural parade for Dwight Eisenhower. We all felt extremely proud of this as we were the first marching unit from the state of Arkansas to participate in an inaugural event. In my mind I can still see Tommy playing his trombone. He was also a member of The Cabin Boys Society, a group of friends who spent some week-ends and days of summer at a cabin located north of Ozark. This cabin was owned by Bob Burrow's family. I have fond memories of us going swimming, fishing, etc. while there. In the years after graduation, he and I were together at Twin City Ambulance Company where we were both drivers. After many years of separation (my family and I relocated to Texas for many years)we returned home. We obtained a German Shepherd puppy and while attending a training meeting at St. Paul Methodist Church I heard a familiar voice and upon checking it was Tommy. That night my wife and I visited with Tommy and Linda and caught up on the years we had been apart. We enjoyed visiting at the class of 58 breakfast meetings. I looked forward to spending more time with Tommy but his health took a turn for the worse. My wife and I had a really good visit with him while he was in the health care facility and were sadden to learn of his passing. Two words describe the Tommy that I knew-Kind and Gentle. We are also happy that he is resting in the arms of Jesus. We extend our sincere sympathy to Linda and all of his family in your great loss. Linda and DeWayne Garrett