William Thomas (Tom) Barksdale, Jr., age 78, passed away on September 12th, 2026, at his home in Ooltewah, Tennessee.

Born on July 28, 1948, in Beaumont, Texas, Tom grew up in the Bluff Park area of Birmingham, Alabama. He graduated from University of Montevallo in 1969 before serving his country on active duty with the Air National Guard from 1970 to 1971. Following his service, Tom built a dedicated, 40-year career with the Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, working from June 1971 until his retirement in August 2011.

Tom was a true craftsman and handyman who could fix just about anything. He enjoyed working on all types of motors, repairing and restoring antiques, wood turning, fishing, and gardening, often with classic rock music or an Atlanta Braves game playing in the background.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, W.T. and Louise Barksdale, his sister, Annemarie Sauer, and nephews, Jeff and Kent Davis.

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Jo Ann (née Grant); his two daughters, Delyn (Ronald) Barksdale and Dorie (Karl) Hickson; his five grandchildren, Erin, James (Hanna), Jake, Page, and Drew; his two great-grandchildren, JJ and Landon; sister-in-law, Mary-Jane Davis; niece and nephews, Mimi, Scott, and Ross. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

A private family service will be held at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his memory to the Parkinson's Foundation (parkinson.org) or Lewy Body Dementia Association (lbda.org).

Arrangements Entrusted to Cremation Center of Chattanooga 1345 Hickory Valley Rd. Chattanooga, TN 37421. 423.362.5999.