Tommy W. Gordon
Tommy W. Gordon, 87, was called home on Sunday February 21, 2016. He died peacefully in his sleep at Friendship Village in Chesterfield, MO. He leaves his beloved wife of 59 years, Jane Gordon; his daughter, Kim Wantz; his son, David Gordon and his wife, Melissa Gordon; five grandchildren, Matthew Wantz, Bennett Wantz, Austin Gordon, Brendan Gordon, and Ashley Gordon; his brother, William Gordon and his wife Doris Gordon; and his sister, Duane Tillery.
Born and raised in Bessemer, AL, he attended Auburn University and received a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He was an an accomplished swimmer and was a life long supporter of the Auburn swim team. He was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the Air Force to pursue his lifelong dream of flying. Shortly after, he met and married the love of his life “Janie”. He then attended Oklahoma University where he received his Masters in Mechanical Engineering. Tommy spent 22 years in the Air Force traveling the world serving his country. During that time, he served two tours in Vietnam flying the F100. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, the South Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, and the Air Medal seven times.
Upon retiring from the Air Force, he worked for The Boeing Corporation for 24 years. He was very involved with the Civil Air Patrol, the Auburn Club, his church, The American Legion, Gardening, and spending time with his family and grandchildren.
Services will be on Monday, February 29th, at St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church in Creve Coeur, MO. Reception at 9:00 AM. Service immediately following at 10:30 AM.
John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
While on active duty with the USAF I was blessed to know Tommy, flying F-100s with him at RAF Lakenheath in the 492nd Tac Ftr Sq in the mid 60’s. Always a gentleman, a fine officer, and a steady lead you could count on. Plus we both spoke the same language, ‘engineering’, being a mechanical engineer also. How did a kid from Alabama and one from Arizona wind up here in central America?
Our common love of aviation! Well Tommy, you have “slipped the surly bonds of earth” this time. Bless you as you wing your way to the Savior’s arms. Check 6! I’ll be there on your wing again one fine day. Comrade in arms and brother in Christ,
Bill