Mr. Thomas Kenneth Garland, age 76, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at his home on Lake Wedowee, surrounded by his loved ones after a brave and extended battle with cancer.

Born on New Year's Day in 1947, in Johnson City, Tennessee, Tom was the son of the late Fred W. Garland and Queen Pennington Garland. He worked in the construction industry, owning Garland Construction and was a partner in Utility Replacement Company. Prior to becoming a business owner, he worked for Richards and Associates, where he enjoyed many friendships and working relationships.

In addition to his professional achievements, Mr. Garland was known for his commitment to his community. He was an active supporter of the Randolph County Animal Shelter and Lake Wedowee Property Owners Asssociation. During his time as a Board Member and President of the Association he helped initiate several projects including the Mile Marker identification on the lake and the Fox Creek Nature Trail. He particularly enjoyed working on the annual Kids' Fishing Day and the Lakeshore Cleanup. The group recognized him as the Distinguished Member in 2018.

He was passionate about politics and genealogy and pursued those hobbies along with a love of golf after his retirement.

Tom is survived by his wife of 55 years, Laura H. Garland, his son and daughter-in-law, Bo and Sarah Garland, and grandchildren, Lauren Garland and James Garland, Jr. He is also survived by his brothers and sister-in-law, Fred Garland, Bill Garland, Lawton and Gwenda Garland, as well as brothers-in-law Richard (Georgeann) and Dan Helton and sister-in-law, Sue Lane Helton. Numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins also mourn his passing. Preceding him in death were his brothers-in-law and sister-in-law, Tommy Helton, Charles (Brenda) Helton, and his parents.

A Celebration of Life for Tom Garland will be held on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at 10 am at Almon Funeral Home in Carrollton, Georgia, providing an opportunity for friends and family to share cherished memories. Following the service, a reception will be hosted at Suttons American Grill, 477 Rome Street, Carrollton.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Randolph County Animal Shelter, 104 Animal Shelter Road, Wedowee, Alabama 36278. Tom actively worked for many years to raise funds for the group through their Annual Book Sale.

Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be shared with the family online at www.almonfuneralhome.com.

Almon Funeral Home of Carrollton has charge of arrangements.