09/11/2026
“After a courageous battle with cancer, Tom is now resting with his heavenly Savior and his earthly mother and father. Tom was saved as a 14-year-old and remained a man of strong faith throughout his journey. He was born at Langley AFB in Virginia to John and Evelyn Spangler in 1958. John’s career in the Air Force required the family to move frequently with stints in Virginia, Florida and Texas, but they returned home to Tennessee in 1971.
Tom grew up in the Carter community, graduating from Carter High School in 1976. He followed his dad’s footsteps by enlisting in the United States Air Force and was based at Eglin AFB. In 1980 he returned home and began working at the Knox County Sheriff’s Office as a corrections officer. His tenure at KCSO encompassed nearly every rank, title or role including being an integral part of founding the Aviation Unit. He was a fixed wing/helicopter pilot and graduated the FBI National Academy.
His accolades abound, but his legacy was built on his humility and integrity. Tom carried a high position but, in his humility, he never let it go to his head or his heart. His integrity was lived out in his desire to “Always do the RIGHT thing”. In 2018, “Spanky” (as he was affectionately coined) was elected as Knox County Sheriff, and then he was elected for a second term in 2022. He served 2 terms as Sheriff totaling 37 years of faithful service to Knox County. He also served at Blount County Sheriff’s Office as the Chief Deputy of Training for 4 years.
On October 5th, 2026, he and his soulmate Linda would have celebrated 30 years of marriage. Tom was also a wonderful father and a proud “pawpaw”. He was an avid fisherman, challenging himself to fish at a professional level, and he enjoyed golfing.”
We are honored to serve the family of Charles Thomas (Tom) Spangler
Dec 20, 1958 — Sep 10, 2026
https://www.mynattfh.com/obituaries/charles-spangler