Thomas Strong Parrott left this earthly life to be in heaven with his true Father. He was born on November 23, 1950, in San Diego, California, and passed away unexpectedly in Gainesville, Georgia, with his best friends by his side, on the evening of April 7, 2025. Tom was an unforgettable man who impacted everything and everyone that he touched. Tom was brilliant, strong, funny, and passionate, and he loved the Lord with all of his heart. His children remember him for instilling in them a strong work ethic, a sense of humor, belief in God and Country, and being an example as a father. You would have felt his wisdom and humor if you knew him even for a minute. Tom asked for a few things with his passing, and the first is this… “Please don’t try and make me a saint in your memories. I want you to think of me as I was, a human being.”
The second thing that Tom asked for was… “If you choose to have a memorial… I would like to insist that it be a party. Please. I want you guys to tell jokes, laugh a lot, drink, and make merry. Slaughter the fattened calf and bring out the best wine. This should be a celebration. You can cry; that would be cool, but please move on and hold me in your smiles. Your happy lives and smiles will be a tribute to me.”
Tom was preceded in death by his beloved mother and father, Betty and Cliff, and his beautiful sister, Patty. He is survived by his three sons, Thomas (Brooke), Matthew (Kerri), and Andrew (Kadi); his four remaining sisters, Victoria Hsieh, Georgia Parrott, Jaqueline Rosheim (Doug), and Christine Fredette (Ernie); and his six beautiful grandchildren: Levi, Lynsey, Ben, Andy, Rhone, and Raen.
He graduated from Warner Robbins High School and went on to earn degrees from Arizona State University, Suffolk University, and Midwest Theological Seminary. A veteran of the United States Air Force, he worked as an accountant, a consultant, in sales, and as a counselor throughout his life. He enjoyed working on his property in North Carolina, telling stories, gardening, and being with people in general.
In Tom’s honor, we will be celebrating his life on Sunday, April 13th at 2 pm, at Tabernacle Baptist Church, 6467 Hwy 441, South, Lakemont, GA. 30552. Please be prepared with a funny story or a good joke. Afterwards, close family and friends will join for a more intimate meal and remembrance at the church.
In place of flowers, please consider donating to the Tabernacle Baptist Church at https://give.idonate.com/tabernacle-baptist-church/give.
An online guest register is available and may be viewed at www.habershamcrematory.com.
Habersham Crematory (678-617-2210) of Cornelia is in charge of arrangements.
