08/24/2026
Thomas Howard Barkley, age 89, passed away peacefully at Durham-Hensley Nursing Home on Friday, August 21, 2026.
Tommy, as he was affectionately known, was born to the late George and Pauline Barkley on August 30, 1936, in Chuckey, Tennessee. He was the youngest of three children born to their union.
Growing up on the family farm, Tommy learned the value of hard work and developed a steadfast commitment to serving not only his family, but anyone he encountered. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1959 and served as a medic in Germany until his honorable discharge in 1962.
Tommy returned to Greenville and began a lifetime of service to his community. He was employed by Green Valley Developmental Center as a physical therapy specialist. He later attended Knoxville College Barber School and became a licensed barber. Tommy was subsequently hired by Eastman Kodak Company, where he faithfully served for 30 years before retiring.
Tommy was a lifelong member of Friendship Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon, choir member, and church caretaker. He also shared his love of music by singing in traveling gospel quartets outside of the church.
Tommy will long be remembered for the many ways he served others throughout the community. He was a barber to many, a grass cutter to others, a painter to some, and a caregiver to a few. It did not matter what he was called upon to do; he always served with thoughtfulness, integrity, honor, and a smile....
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