Thomas H. Tirey, Sr., 76 of Florence passed away on Monday, February 10, 2014 at Eliza Coffee Memorial Hospital. Visitation will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday at Elkins Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Kevin Johnson officiating. Burial will be in Tri-Cities Memorial Gardens.
He was a graduate of Tech High School in Memphis, TN where he lettered nine times in three different sports. He went on to play college football for Arkansas State in 1956 and for Memphis State University in 1958 and 1959. Mr. Tirey began his career with General Electric in Memphis, TN and retired after 30 years of service in 1993 from management at the General Electric Aircraft Engines Division in Wilmington, N.C. Mr. Tirey continued his lifelong love for sports; was an avid golfer; and was owner of the family business, The Golf Bag. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Florence where he served as a Deacon, was a member of the choir and sang in the men’s quartet. He was a lifelong lover of music and was known for his beautiful voice.
Mr. Tirey was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 57 years, Mary Ann Tirey, and his parents, Howard and Roselle Tirey.
He is survived by his daughters, Charlotte T. Elliott (Ward) of Riner, VA and Terri T. Weaver (David) of Richmond, VA; son, Thomas H. Tirey, Jr. of San Antonio, TX; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; sister, Fran Nunnelly of Florence, AL; nephew, Bill Nunnelly of Florence, AL; sisters-in-law, Dorothy Wells and Shirley Spears; and brothers-in-law, Charles Gallarno and Ed Gallarno.
Pallbearers will be Sean Tirey, Travis Tirey, David Weaver, Will Weaver, Ward Elliott, Bill Nunnelly, and Howell Sparks. Honorary Pallbearers will be the Wheeler Sunday School Class.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church of Florence Building Fund; 209 N. Walnut Street; Florence, AL 35630.
