Tom was born in Rush Springs, Oklahoma in 1934.  His parents migrated to Dinuba, CA where Tom spent his early years.  In 1951, Tom joined the U.S. Navy proudly serving on LST758 supplying the Marines who had made the Inchon Landings and transporting prisoners of war to Japan.

Returning home, Tom married his sweetheart, the love of his life, Anita Louise Jones.  Early life had it's struggles with two of their children having life threatening issues.  It is hard to imagine having such a burden upon their young lives taking years to pay this debt.

In 1968 Tom became a City of Clovis Police Officer.  He loved his job serving in patrol, the detective division and traffic enforcement.  He was promoted to Sergeant serving as a shift watch commander as well as the new Motorcycle Traffic Unit.  Tom retired in 1991 and was loved and respected by all of his fellow employees.  He enjoyed a weekly coffee with a group of fellow retirees and kept it lively by telling big ones making everyone laugh.  He will be missed.

All of his life, Tom loved classic cars and motorcycles even owning a few.  A 32 Ford Roadster, 1967 Chevelle SS and a 56 T-Bird.  A motorcycle accident took his lower leg, but this did not get him down.  He continued his job and began to counsel other amputees who were struggling to adapt to their medical condition.

Tom is predeceased by his wife Anita Louise Payne, son Ricky and daughter Renay.  He is survived by his remaining two daughters Lindy Payne and Melody Greer, 9 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.

At Tom's request, there will be no funeral service or memorial.  At a later date, there will be a tribute at Smith Mountain Cemetery near Dinuba, CA where all will be welcome.  He will be laid to rest with our Savior and his sweetheart, the love of his life, Anita Louise Jones Payne.

Further information will follow by James (Jim) Barrett, retired CPD, or you may contact him at (559) 908-5116 or (559) 960-1030.  582 Arroyo Ave, Clovis, CA  93611