Thomas Edward Scarborough

Thomas E. “Tommy” Scarborough, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, veteran, cowboy, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2025, just four days shy of his 77th birthday. A decorated military veteran, Tommy proudly served his country with honor and courage, a commitment that shaped his life and earned him the respect of all who knew him.

Graveside services will be held at 2:30 P.M. Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at Memory Hill Cemetery with Paul Nolin officiating and Ward Wilson Funeral Home directing.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 1:30 to 2:30 P.M. Wednesday, one hour prior to the service.

Born on July 6, 1948, to Merrill and Hoyt Scarborough, Tommy lived a life marked by adventure, love, and generosity. He was a skilled pilot, able to fly nine different types of aircraft—an extraordinary feat that speaks to his intelligence, determination, and fearlessness.

But the sky wasn’t his only domain. Tommy was a true cowboy at heart, with a deep love for horses—his “horse children”—and the rugged beauty of the life they brought him. He found joy in the simple things: a good ride, a hearty laugh, a helping hand extended, and time shared with those he loved.

Those who knew Tommy knew a man of immense decency, generosity, and warmth. He had a way of making friends wherever he went and left an impression that lasted long after the conversation ended. He was loving, fun, and always ready with a story or a smile. His presence lit up a room, and his absence will leave it dimmer.

Tommy is preceded in death by his parents, Merrill and Hoyt Scarborough; his brother, Donnell Scarborough; and his beloved son, Clint Scarborough. Though their loss weighed heavily on him, he never lost his strength or his spirit.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Jean Scarborough; his daughter, Gayle Scarborough; his stepson, Michael McDonald; his stepdaughter, Tracy Powell, his granddaughter, Leanna Johnson (Eric), grandson, Alex McDonald (Danni) and great-grandchildren Faith, Hadlee, Axel, Evie, and Riley, nephews Brandon Scarborough (Shelly) and Michael Scarborough  (Julie), his Aunt, more like his sister, Laura Bagwell, along with many great nieces, nephews, cousins and a wide circle of dear friends. All who knew Tommy loved him deeply and will carry his memory forward with respect, pride and affection.

Tommy fought a long, hard battle, facing each day with courage and grace. In the end, he went home—to reunite with the family he missed so dearly, and to wait for the rest of us. He will be remembered as a hero, a cowboy, a gentleman, and above all, a good man.

In Lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to his favorite charity, Wounded Warrior Project, in his honor.

Honorary pallbearers will be Edward Aldecoa, Jackie Smith, Tommy Enfinger, Kerry Farrar, Thomas Wilson and Michael McDonald.

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