Tommy Gafford

Tommy Dale Gafford, age 71, passed away on February 9, 2026, in Arlington, Texas. He was born on July 30, 1954, in Corsicana, Texas, to his parents Billy and Georgia Gafford. Tommy was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He shared 50 wonderful years with the love of his life, Patricia Gafford, building a life centered on love, loyalty, and family. Tommy was truly a family man—his greatest joy was spending time with those he loved, whether gathered together or sharing everyday moments. He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Gafford; his children, Eric Alan Gafford, Christopher Dale Gafford and wife Christy, and Kimberly Gafford Day and husband David; his siblings, Bill Gafford and wife Kim, Dewayne Gafford and wife Susie, and Judy Wilson and husband Mike; and his cherished grandchildren, Tristani (Danya), Journey, Ethan, Zachary (Sophie), Ashlyn (Reney), Lucas, Deven, Dylan, and Alyssa. He is also survived by beloved cousins, dear friends, his shipmates, and his brothers of Vietnam Veterans Chapter 1009, who held a special place in his heart. Tommy was preceded in death by his parents, Billy and Georgia Gafford, and his beloved granddaughter, McKayla, whom he carried in his heart always. In his free time, Tommy enjoyed fishing, gardening, and playing the guitar. He loved music, the outdoors, and above all, being surrounded by family and friends. His kindness, humor, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Tommy proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1973 to 1977, attaining the rank of BT3 while stationed aboard the USS Sacramento (AOE-1), a fast combat support ship. He was assigned to the #2 fire room, where he worked in the boiler room maintaining the integrity of the fire room and ensuring the boilers operated safely and efficiently. During his naval service, Tommy was deployed to the Vietnam area in a support role and was also stationed in the Philippines, where he met the love of his life, Patricia, beginning the journey they would share for the next 50 years. Following his honorable military service, Tommy dedicated more than 40 years to his career as a service technician. He began working with the family business, Bill’s Appliance, in Morgan City, Louisiana, from 1977 to 1979, before continuing his career in Corsicana, Texas, where he worked faithfully until his retirement in 2019. His strong work ethic, reliability, and pride in providing for his family defined both his professional life and the man he was. Visitation will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Lone Star Cowboy Church of Navarro County. A funeral service will follow immediately at 3:00 p.m., officiated by Tim Easley. Burial will follow at Hamilton-Beeman Cemetery. Tommy’s legacy of love, friendship, and devotion to family will live on through the many lives he touched.

Tommy Gafford

July 30, 1954 - February 9, 2026