Thomas V Gothard

Thomas V. Gothard, age 80, received his heavenly reward Wednesday, January 3rd. Tom was the son of Thomas H. Gothard and Clara E. (Elder) Gothard. Tom was born in Washburn Holler, Morgantown, Tennessee on October 30th, 1943. Tom was proceeded in death by his parents and his older sisters, Katie Ruth and Sandra Fenlon (Skip). He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Tionne "Toni" Gothard (Miller) and his three daughters - Debbie Gothard-Speciale (Valerie), Rebecca Gothard, and Pamela Gothard Ascano (Carlos). Tom had eight very special grandchildren Andrew Gothard (Helena), Tyson Gothard, Toni Stanage, Dougie Stanage, Kayla Knoth, Steven David Knoth, Carlos Ascano and Maria Ascano. He is also survived by his younger sister Cathy Grestini (late Mario) of Battle Creek, MI. He was also survived by many nieces and nephews including two special nieces - Diana Smythe and Susan Swafford daughter of sister Katie. He also had a special daughter that he took into his home when she needed guidance and love - Shelly Mooth.

Tom graduated from Springfield Highschool in 1961 and was an avid all-around athlete. He continued playing sports throughout his life - softball, bowling and golfing.

Tom worked for Eaton Corporation for 37 very successful years starting in Battle Creek, MI in 1964 sweeping floors and ending in Greenwood South Carolina in 2001 as Plant Manager and made many lifelong friends during his long career (way too many to mention, but you know who you are). He also played Softball for many years, but most notably the Eaton Local 196 Softball World Class Slow Pitch team for many years. Tom was one of the few players that played, managed and umpired for the World Class team.

Tom attended the Ireland Road Church of God. He gave his heart and soul to his church and spreading the word of his personal savior.

Tom wanted to say a special thank you to his wife Toni. "Toni, who is the rock of our family, allowed me to accomplish everything in my career and personal life. She was there for our girls when I couldn't be. She supported me during our whole life together and I would not have been successful without her."

Cremation will take place with a time to visit and celebrate a wonderful life lived planned for January 12, 2024, from 5-7p at Cruz Family Funeral Home, Osceola. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be sent to the American Cancer Society.

To light a virtual candle, share a memory of Thomas’s life, or offer a condolence to his family, please visit the Tribute Tab