Thomas “Tom” Dale Shirley, Jr.
Thomas “Tom” Dale Shirley, Jr., 61, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, was welcomed into his heavenly home on Wednesday, November 27, 2024. After years apart, Tom reunited with his college sweetheart, Bonnie Bankert, and the two shared a love story full of laughter and partnership. They were married on June 6, 2015, cherishing nearly a decade of marriage and over 11 years of rediscovered love.
Born in McComb, Ms., on April 4, 1963, to Thomas Dale Shirley, Sr. and Luanna Grace Shirley, Tom grew up with a love for learning and craftsmanship. He graduated in 1981 from Divernon High School in Divernon, Illinois and continued his studies at Tennessee Temple University in Chattanooga.
Tom was a faithful member of Silverdale Baptist Church, where his love for God and community shone brightly. His commitment to his faith was evident in the way he lived his life, with humility, kindness, and a heart for helping others.
Tom was a man of many talents and interests. An accomplished woodworker, he often spent time in his garage creating unique pieces that reflected his creativity and precision. A natural chef, he could whip up delicious meals from scratch, delighting family and friends. Though he once proclaimed he wasn’t a “dog person,” he fell head over heels for Bonnie’s beloved fur babies and was a devoted doggie daddy to Copper, Zuri, and Cairo. Discovering the uniqueness of the basenji breed, Tom became an avid supporter and volunteer for BRAT (Basenji Rescue and Transport).
Professionally, Tom assisted Bonnie in her business, helping to print and mail monthly newsletters and postcards for Mary Kay directors. His meticulous nature and willingness to help others were hallmarks of his character.
Tom’s love extended beyond his immediate family. Though distance separated them, he loved his children, Thomas Shirley III and Emma Shirley, who reside in Waterloo, Ia. Tom also shared a close bond with his sisters: Luanna Shirley of Seneca, S.C.; Maelene Wormley and her husband David of Council Bluffs, Ia.; and Donella Sweazy of Omaha, Ne.; as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Don Sweazy.
A sports enthusiast, Tom was an ardent fan of the Tennessee Vols, the Tennessee Titans, and the Iowa Hawkeyes, finding joy in the thrill of the game. He was also deeply committed to his community, often volunteering to help others in need, embodying a spirit of generosity and kindness.
Tom will be remembered as a true gentleman, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a man who brought joy and warmth to everyone he met. His legacy of love and service will forever be cherished by all who knew him.
A Celebration of Tom’s Life will be held on Saturday, Dec. 14, at 11 a.m. at Silverdale Baptist Church (Student Ministry Building), 7236 Bonny Oaks Drive, Chattanooga, with Ken Schoening officiating. Friends and family are invited to visit one hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to BRAT (Basenji Rescue and Transport), 7255 Jermyn Cove, Germantown, Tn. 38138, or online at https://www.basenjirescue.org/Donate.asp, honoring Tom’s newfound love for this special breed and his dedication to giving back.
Visit the online obituary www.heritagechattanooga.com to post tributes and share memories.
Arrangements are by Heritage Funeral Home, East Brainerd Chapel.