Tommy Pilkinton

Earl Thomas "Tommy" Pilkinton, Jr., 86, of Columbia, Tennessee passed away at his residence on February 26, 2025. Tommy lived a life full of love for the Lord, his family and his Culleoka community, where he lived until he moved to Columbia for health reasons. He was a member of the church of Christ, and served as a deacon then an elder for the Culleoka congregation for many years.

Graveside services will be conducted Monday, March 3, 2025 at 3:00 PM at Friendship Cemetery with Roy Fraser officiating and military honors provided by the Herbert Griffin American Legion Post 19. A visitation will be held Monday, March 3, 2025 from 12:00 PM until 2:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. The family suggest memorials may be made to the Columbia Academy or the Highland Church of Christ Building Fund. Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com.

Tommy had a lifelong passion for farming from his early days of helping his father milk cows to spending countless hours cutting hay and driving his tractors. His relaxation was coon hunting where he formed many lasting memories with wonderful friends. His work ethic extended beyond the farm. He was a skilled plumber, electrician and all-around maintenance man. He retired from Union Carbide as a pipe fitter. On March 7, 1958, Tommy married the love of his life, Coleen Harris Pilkinton, who preceded him in death on February 17, 2012.

He is survived by his daughters, Patti (Mike) Foster, Jenny (Roy) Fraser; grandsons. Michael Foster, Will (Britton) Foster, Robert Foster (Magen Gary), Charlie (Sarah) Fraser, William Fraser; great grandchildren, Mimsie Foster, Sadie Foster, Beau Foster, Lorelai Foster, Emmett Foster, Charlie Fraser, Boone Fraser; siblings, Mary Pilkinton, Rachel (David) Ammons, Jimmy (Bennie) Pilkinton; sister in law, April Pilkinton; several nieces and nephews, and two great nieces.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his son, Jeff Pilkinton; brother, David Pilkinton; and sister, Martha Esslinger.

Active pallbearers will be his grandsons.