In Memory

Thomas Jonathan [Tommy] Christian, II

What a great man.  I'm sure you all remember what a great job he did at our 40th reunion with his blessing and sweetly naming all of our classmates that have passed away.  He will be truly missed.  Rest in Peace Tommy.
 

Rev. Thomas Jonathan Jackson Christian II, 59, passed away on November 14, 2011 at his home in Winter Haven, FL, from cancer. Born on August 11, 1952 in Jacksonville, Fl, Tom was a graduate of St. Andrews Presbyterian College and McCormick Theological Seminary where he won the James and Ellen Taylor Preaching award. He started his career as a sports editor at "The Laurinburg Exchange", Laurinburg, North Carolina before hearing the call to ministry and embarking on his life's mission to pastor the people of God. That call eventually led Tom to Polk County to become the senior pastor of the First Presbyterian Church in Haines City, Fl where he served faithfully for 23 years and was recently named Pastor Emeritus. He loved shepherding the people of FPC Haines City and bearing witness for Jesus Christ in the community. Beyond the church, Tom was an equally devoted and caring husband, father, and grandfather. He loved talking with his family, traveling, sharing in personal jokes, and playing with his grandson Caleb. He and his cherished wife of 36 years, Julia, held a special connection that few could truly appreciate. Tom will always be remembered as a strong, Godly man who enjoyed the simple blessings of life and had never missed an opportunity to have fun along the way. Tom is survived by his wife Julia, his son and his spouse, Jonathan and Courtney Christian, his daughters and their spouses, Julie and Zachary McGowen and Mary Beth and Billy McSwain, and his grandson Caleb McGowen. Memorial services will be held at the First Presbyterian Church in Haines City, Fl on Thursday, November 16 at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Fellowship of Presbyterians, General Fund C/O Brenda Smith, First Presbyterian Church of Colorado Springs, 219 East Bijou, Colorado Springs, Co 80903.



 
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04/02/14 06:04 PM #1    

Howard Herman Schmerin

I just learned of Tommy's passing.  He was truly a good person and I enjoyed knowing him (and receiving a lot of good advice from him) in High School.  I knew he would make his mark in the world.  I wish he was around a lot longer.  Only the good really do seem to die young!  He was a man of faith and I am sure we will meet him again.  Condolences to his family. Howard Schmerin


06/12/15 01:07 PM #2    

James Leon Cochran

I don't keep up with latest info about high school through this website.  That is why I am just reading about Tommy's death.  Like Eddie Ivey, this one hurts my soul.  Tommy was a friend.  A considerate, compassionate, thoughtful, caring friend.  I am not surprised he went into the ministry.  His spirit was large and all encompassing.  I have no doubt that Tommy served our God and spread His Grace throughout his everyday life with anyone he met.  I don't have to say Rest in Peace for Tommy.  I know in my heart that he is.  One day I will see my friends from high school in a wonderful place of joy, love and peace.  Until that day, remember me Tommy.  I will be coming Home soon enough.  Jim Cochran


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