Thomas Carroll “Tommy” Blakely

Thomas Carroll “Tommy” Blakely of Florala, Alabama, passed away October 2, 2026. Born in Florala, he was the son of Carroll Blakely and Ruth Parrish Blakely.

Tommy was a hardworking man who spent his career as a weapons systems specialist at Fort Rucker. He took pride in his work and remained dedicated to his responsibilities until declining health led to his retirement. Yet, of all the responsibilities he carried throughout his life, none meant more to him than caring for his mother.

As Miss Ruth’s health began to fail, Tommy devoted himself to making sure she had the care, comfort, and companionship she needed. When the demands of working and caring for her became too much to manage alone, he turned to his friend, Harry Floyd. Harry helped care for Miss Ruth until her passing, sharing with Tommy the difficult but deeply loving work of tending to someone so dear.

In the years that followed, as Tommy’s own health declined, Harry became his caregiver. Their friendship grew into a bond much like that of brothers—a bond built on trust, loyalty, shared memories, and being there for one another through life’s hardest seasons. Harry held a special place in Tommy’s life, and their devotion to one another was a beautiful example of the family we sometimes find in friendship.

One of Tommy’s greatest joys was raising and training his beloved parrots, Mr. Willie and Mr. Meany. With their distinct personalities and the special things he had taught them to do, they brought laughter, companionship, and delight to his days. Parrots can be companions for many years, and Tommy’s birds, both still living, remain a touching connection to the patience and affection he poured into their care.

Tommy will be remembered for his work ethic, his faithful devotion to his mother, and the lasting friendship he shared with Harry. His life reminds us that love is often shown most clearly in the everyday acts of caring for someone, staying beside them, and helping them carry what they cannot carry alone.

Graveside services for Thomas Carroll “Tommy” Blakely will be held at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at Greenwood Cemetery.