Thomas Yarbrough Obituary, Resident Of Athens Greece Has Passed Away

Thomas Yarbrough Obituary, Death – Thomas Terry Yarbrough, affectionately known as “Yardy,” was born on June 11, 1956, in Athens, Georgia, to Margaret Sue Witcher Yarbrough and James Thomas “Tommy” Yarbrough. His roots in Athens ran deep, shaping the trajectory of his life from an early age. Growing up in this close-knit community, Terry embraced the values of service, compassion, and friendship that would define him throughout his 67 years.

 A Legacy of Service: From Eagle Scout to Firefighter 
In his teenage years, Terry demonstrated a remarkable commitment to service, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout and actively participating in 4-H activities that took him across the country. These experiences instilled in him a sense of duty and a passion for helping others. After graduating from Cedar Shoals High School in 1974, Terry embarked on a career dedicated to serving his community. He became an EMT and Firefighter for Athens Clarke County, where he served with distinction for 36 years. Rising through the ranks, Terry eventually became the Training Lt., leaving an indelible mark on the department through his leadership and dedication.

 A Green Thumb and a Heart of Gold 
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Terry was known for his green thumb and love for gardening. He took pride in cultivating his own produce, particularly his tomatoes, which he famously claimed were superior to any store-bought variety. His passion for gardening not only brought him joy but also served as a reflection of his nurturing and caring nature. Terry approached every aspect of his life with the same level of dedication and attention to detail, whether it was tending to his garden or caring for his loved ones.

 Cherished Family Man and Friend 
At the core of Terry’s life were his family and friends. He was a devoted father to his children, Emily McGhee, Maggie Rudio, and Richard Yarbrough, and a doting grandfather to Finn and Eleanor Rudio and Minnie McGhee. His love and support knew no bounds, and he cherished every moment spent with his family. Terry was also a loyal friend, always willing to lend a helping hand or offer words of encouragement to those in need. His genuine kindness and infectious laughter brightened the lives of all who knew him.

 Honoring a Life Well-Lived 
On February 16, 2024, Thomas Terry Yarbrough passed away, leaving behind a legacy of service, friendship, and love. While he may no longer walk among us, his memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. As we gather to celebrate his life at the memorial service on Saturday, March 23, 2024, let us remember Terry for the extraordinary man he was and the countless lives he touched. In honoring his memory, may we strive to emulate his example of selflessness, compassion, and unwavering faith.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at 1:00 pm in the chapel of Lord & Stephens, EAST, Athens. A reception will immediately follow the service at the funeral home.