Thomas J. Balom

Thomas Jefferson Balom was born June 10, 1935 to Mr. Gussie and Mrs. Sittie Balom in Rochelle, Georgia and passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on March 23, 2019 in Lakeland, Florida. Tom was the sixth blessing of six siblings in the Balom Family. Although Tom loss his father when he was a youngster, Mama Sittie instilled in Tom and his siblings her unconditional love, care for family and respect for spiritual things. Tom had a skill set in multiple fields of operation, a balanced competitive nature and talent in mathematics that helped him to be successful in those fields. He worked for more than 37 years for Plant City Steel and owned Balom Lawn Service for 20 years. Theocratic truth touched his heart in the mid seventies causing him to make necessary changes that helped him to progress in his study of the scriptures to dedication and baptism as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in July of 1975. Tom was a perfect fit as a Kingdom proclaimer because of his love for Jehovah God, Jesus Christ, the congregation and people in general. This love motivated him to preach the good news of God's Kingdom to all who would listen. One of Tom’s spiritual goals was to become a regular pioneer. He accomplished that goal by joining his wife, Patricia, as a regular pioneer at the age of 82 until his death. Tom was loved by all who knew him. He is fondly remembered by his smile, kind and friendly demeanor, patience, being a loyal and loving friend, his signature phrase "You got to be particular," and most importantly his legacy as a faithful witness of Jehovah to the end. Many have expressed how Tom touched their lives and encouraged them in their service to Jehovah, even from childhood. His positive and warm spirit made him a fine example of love, the identifying mark of true Christians. Tom was preceeded in death by Gussie Balom, Sittie Balom; Thomas J. Balom Jr.; Hattie McBurrow, J.W. Balom, Curtis Balom, A.D. Balom; Carrie Balom. Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 17 years, Patricia A. Weaver- Balom, who relentlessly provided tender loving care for her husband throughout his illness. He is also survived by his children: Ronny (Sandra) Brunson, Tresa (David) Dunston, Catina (Wayne) Morrison, Carl Balom, Carolyn (Gene) Morgan; Sam Balom (brother); Grandchildren: Stesha (Clearvens)Jean Baptiste, Seidre Brunson, Jordan Justice, Tianna (Christopher) Mills, Davian and Darian Dunston; Great-Grandchildren: Brielle, Reilly, & Austyn Jean Baptiste, and a host of nieces and nephews. The Family of Thomas J. Balom would love to express their sincere appreciation for the kindness, hospitality, and love they have received from members of the congregation, family, friends, and medical professionals involved in his care.

Thomas J. Balom

June 10, 1935 - March 23, 2019