Thomas "Tommy" Henley

Thomas "Tommy" Henley, born on July 4, 1946, passed away on July 13, 2025. Tommy lived a fulfilling life marked by his involvement in various organizations and his love for history. He was a proud member of the Masonic Lodge, the Scottish Rite, and an Al Menah Shriner. He also contributed to his community as a member of the Hendersonville Church of Christ.

Tommy served in the Army from 1966 to 1968 as an armorer, stationed in Germany. His education was important to him; he graduated from Powell High School in Knoxville, Tennessee, then received his bachelor's degree from MTSU and his master's degree from TSU.

Throughout his life, Tommy enjoyed many hobbies, including hunting, admiring antique cars, and sharing stories about his family and his love of history. He had a particular fondness for traveling, often visiting the Smoky Mountains and historical sites like Washington DC, Williamsburg, VA, and Gettysburg. Tommy also loved watching UT football, which brought him joy and excitement.

Tommy is preceded in death by his parents, Luther W. Henley and Helen O'Neal Henley; and his sisters, Brenda Shoopman and Carol Bilbo.

Tommy is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Teresa C. Henley; his children, Tiffany L. Henley Ethridge (Jon) and Thomas Stephen Henley II; his grandchildren, Reese L. Ethridge and Riley M. Ethridge; his great granddaughter on the way, Cora McNeil; his siblings, Michael Henley and Mechelle Rather; his nieces, Jessica Taylor, Christy Shipley, Ashley Rhyme, and Kayla Henley; his nephews, Eric Hagar and Dustin Henley; along with several cousins.

His family and friends will remember him for his kind spirit and the memories shared. A visitation will take place on July 26, 2025, from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon at Hendersonville Memory Gardens, Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Hendersonville, TN. His funeral service will begin at 12 noon with military honors, Masonic service, and celebration of life. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Tommy's honor to the Masonic Widows and Orphans or Shriner's Children's Hospital.