Thomas M Thackston

Thomas Marvin Thackston, 73, passed away peacefully at home on July 26, 2026, surrounded by the people he loved most. Tom leaves behind his beloved wife of 43 years, Sharon; his daughters, Candra (Mike) Bryant and Erin (Josh) Kelley; his five grandchildren, Lily, Ella, Grayson, Jay, and Claire; and his devoted dog, Teddy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Wayne and Evelyn Thackston.

Before an accident and traumatic brain injury changed his life, Tom worked as a machinist and loved camping and riding motorcycles with Sharon. He faced more than his share of health challenges over the years; he was incredibly strong, although anyone in the family will tell you that being unbelievably stubborn probably helped too. Through all of it, Sharon was by his side, caring for him and loving him unconditionally. While Tom overcame things that should have been impossible to overcome, he was always deeply loved, fiercely cared for, and surrounded by a family that never needed words to understand him.

Tom was quiet and gentle and enjoyed the things that made him happy: a good cup of coffee, Little House on the Prairie, old Westerns, The Andy Griffith Show, NASCAR, and cheering on the Bengals. He was almost always calm and easygoing, even if that calm became a little harder to find when the Bengals were losing. He never met a dessert he was willing to turn down; Nutty Buddy bars, chocolate milkshakes, Graeter’s peach ice cream, and pecan wheels were particular favorites. And wherever Tom was, Teddy was usually close behind, following him around the house or curled up beside him for a nap.

More than anything, Tom loved his family. As communicating became harder for him over the years, he found plenty of other ways to make sure they knew it. His face would light up when someone he loved walked into the room, and he was always ready with a smile and a hug. His girls knew their dad loved them, and his grandchildren knew how much their Gampy adored them.

Those are the things his family will miss most-the ordinary pieces of life that were better simply because Tom was there. Sitting together watching television with a cup of coffee. His stubborn streak and sweet tooth. His hugs and smiles. And, of course, watching the Bengals find yet another way to test his patience.

Private graveside services will be held for family and close friends on Wednesday, July 29th, at 9:30am at Floral Hills.