November 29, 1953 – February 2, 2024 Dr. Thomas Charles Pieplow, 70, of Athens, Alabama, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2024. Memorial services will be 4PM Thursday at Lindsay Lane Baptist Church with Dusty McLemore officiating, visitation is 3PM until the service at the church. McConnell Funeral Home, Athens will be directing services.
Dr. Pieplow was born November 29, 1953, in Port Clinton, Ohio. He earned his undergraduate degree in economics from Northwood University, and received his MBA from Florida Tech. He completed studies at the University of Chicago, University of Texas, Duke University, and George Washington University, all leading to his Doctorate in Public Administration from Nova Southeastern University. Dr. Pieplow also completed Columbia University’s program in “Sustainable Development.” Dr. Pieplow has served as Professor in the Graduate School of Business for Alabama A&M, Florida Institute of Technology and Embry Riddle Aeronautical Universities. He retired from his position as the Director for Foreign Military Sales at the US Army Aviation and Missile Command and was responsible for the sale and transfer of all aviation and missile systems to over 70 foreign nations. After retirement from the US Army, Dr. Pieplow went on to work at Athens State University serving as the Department Chair and Interim Dean for the College of Business. Dr. Pieplow was awarded Faculty Emeritus at Athens State University in 2023.
He is survived by his daughters, Sarah Pieplow Sharman (Matthew), Auburn, AL and Jessica Pieplow Delaplane (Matt), Harvest, AL, and his cherished grandchildren, Ella Peyton Sharman and Mallory Sharman. Brothers-In-Law: Wyn Mayhew (Neccia), Port Clinton, OH, Brad Mayhew (Toni), Brevard, NC and Dave Dick, Denton, TX, seven nieces; Michelle, Necolle, Lesa, Julie, Brandy, Chelsea, and Casey, nephews DJ and Chris. Tom was preceded in death by his wife, Becky Pieplow, parents, Theodore “Bus” and Eve Pieplow, and sister-in-law, Susie Dick.
Tom had a passion and enthusiasm for life. His love for the Cleveland Browns, Ohio State, and Auburn University ran deep. Tom’s greatest desire was to serve the Lord. He lived by example and his impact will forever be remembered by his family and friends.
A graveside service will be held at Riverview Cemetery in Port Clinton, Ohio at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Tom and Becky Pieplow Endowed Scholarship at Athens State University Foundation, PO Box 70, Athens, AL 35611
