Obituaries » Thomas Edward Young Sr.

Thomas Edward Young Sr.

July 24, 1931 - September 7, 2023

Thomas Edward Young Sr., 92, of Prospect, Virginia, went to Heaven on Thursday, September 7, 2023, to be with our Lord Jesus Christ.

Tom served as an Airborne/Ranger in Korea assigned to an Infantry Company as a Platoon Leader and later a Company Executive Officer as a 1st LT. He spent 18 years on active duty compiling 29 Ranger jumps as a paratrooper. Thomas retired as a Major-S-3 of Tank Battalion followed by service in the Virginia and Tennessee National Guard.

Tom was a graduate of Covington High School Covington, VA and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. He was employed with Upjohn where he retired as Director of National Accounts and Poultry unit in Agricultural Div. where he was awarded The W.E. Upjohn and The Upjohn Sale Academy awards.

Tom was active in service to his church family at the Farmville United Methodist Church where he held most all leadership positions to include a Certified Lay Speaker. His civic duties included being President of the Farmville Lions Club where he obtained numerous awards to include the Melvin Jones Fellow Honor; and was a lifetime member of National Block and Bridle Club and the Dairy Shrine Club. The Melvin Jones Fellowship honor was established as the Lions Clubs International Foundation’s (LCIF) highest form of recognition to acknowledge an individual’s dedication to humanitarian service.

Tom was born July 24, 1931, in Farmville, Virginia, the son of Joe and Helen Young (Glenn). Tom married the love of his life Tola Katrena Young (Coleman) on December 26, 1955, and they shared 63 years together before her death.

Tom is survived by his children Joe and (Pamela) Young, Thomas Young Jr., K. Jane (Gregory) Forton and Robert (Michael Ouding) Young, his siblings Helen Jean (Erine) Fitzgerald, Joe Wilson Young, Eugene (Carolyn) Young; and nine grandchildren and ten great grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held Thursday, September 14, 2023, at 1 pm at Farmville United Methodist church. The Service can be viewed live on the “Farmville United Methodist Church” Facebook page.

Memorials in honor of Tom’s Civic involvement may be directed to Farmville Lions Club and/or Farmville Scopes Meals on Wheels.

Tharp Funeral Home and Crematory, Lynchburg is assisting the family.

Condolences & Tributes

Celebrate Thomas Edward's life with a short message, photo or video!

Rest in Peace T.Y.! I am sending my prayers for comfort to all of you as you mourn the loss of your father, grandfather, and brother. I remembers Tom’s smile and laughter. Tom was in the home office when I was hired with the feed division of TUCO in the early 80’s. One of my fond memories as a trainee was having dinner with he and his dear wife at their home; he grilled pork chops and I so enjoyed them and the time with them. He was a good man.

Posted by Lois Heuchert on September 12, 2023

I casually knew Tom before he became my boss and good friend. While he lived near Atlanta, we got to know his great family as well. Seven or eight years ago, at a men's Bible study/breakfast in Winder, GA, a couple of men walked in behind me. I thought I recognized a voice; turned to confirm and it was TY. A wonderful surprise. We had no idea the other would be there. While I was able to attend Katrina's funeral, I will not be there for Tom's, and that is very sad. To the family, you know how great he was, and all the rest of us that knew him did as well. Tom is now enjoying his reward. My best wishes to the family. Joel

Posted by Joel Ash on September 10, 2023

Tom Young hired me straight out of UT to be a TUCO sales rep in TN & KY in 1977. He was such a great man and person and always wanted the best for his team. He gave me great direction in my start with TUCO - Upjohn and lead to a great 46- year career in Vet Pharmaceutical sales. I will for every be in gratitude for Tom giving me a chance and being a great mentor. Condolences to all the family members and my heart goes out to them as they go forward.

Posted by Alan Thomas on September 10, 2023

Our condolences to the Tom Young family during their time of sorrow. I reported to Tom (we called him TY) two different times during my career with TUCO/Upjohn. He was the best. May he rest in peace.

Posted by Bob & Linda Ford on September 10, 2023

Tom Young was a true gentleman and fine Animal Health pharmaceuticals/feed additives professional. I both respected and liked him, as we worked together over time on many projects at The Upjohn Company. I send heartfelt condolences to his family, and wishes for their continuing healthfulness, safety, and well-being as they grieve and honor Tom.

Posted by Paul Ludwig on September 10, 2023

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