Thomas Miller Glanton

EVER TO CONQUER, NEVER TO YIELD

July 29, 1963 – April 1, 2026

With 0:01 remaining, Tom Glanton took the ball in the back of the end zone and ran it all the way back. At 62 years old, he celebrated this final victory with his family lovingly by his side.

Born July 29, 1963, in Hampton, VA, Tom was the adored younger brother of Wynn Glanton Grisham and son of Thomas Pettis Glanton and Bess Zellars Miller. Their family moved to Carrollton in 1968. Tom bled black and gold and was captain of the 1980 Trojan football team. He was a fourth‑generation Auburn graduate and a member of Sigma Nu fraternity. Many consider Tom the greatest Auburn fan they have ever known.

Tom proudly served his country in the United States Army, achieving the rank of Captain. The discipline, work-ethic, and integrity that make an outstanding soldier are attributes that Tom applied to his successful 30-year career as an insurance broker at J. Smith Lanier & Company. Though he earned the respect of his many clients, his faith and family were always his priority.

A steadfast husband, Tom married his lifelong best friend, Kelly Garrett, and the couple celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary on March 22nd. Their marriage stands as an inspiration to all, a lasting example of unwavering love and partnership through every season of life. Tom was a present and devoted father to Pete, Grace, and Bess, and "Tommy" to ten cherished grandchildren.

Tom exemplified servant leadership: church lay leader, committed Trojan Football mentor, president of the athletic booster club, football coach for the recreation department and countless other examples. Tom practiced daily the teachings and example of Jesus by his compassion for others. This included frequently providing rides around town, filling up gas-tanks, and freely giving cash from his wallet to people he just met. Tom understood his privilege and only used it for the benefit of others. He was extraordinary at relating authentically to everyone.

Tom's main hobby was being a fervent sports fan, and many know his uncanny ability to recall specific details from games past. He was devoted to everything Auburn, passionately followed Atlanta sports, and was all-in for his children's teams.

Tom also loved hiking, biking, snow skiing, and traveling. He ran a marathon and even summitted Mt. Whitney. Tom made people laugh with silly songs and chants, loved crawfish, and never turned down a tub of ice cream or a draft beer. Tom was loyal, generous, fun, and hilarious. These qualities contributed to the wealth of friendships he cultivated throughout his life.

In 2018, Tom faced his toughest opponent, Alzheimer's Disease. He remained brave and positive through the illness. Even in the hardest seasons, Tom never lost his kindness or sense of humor.

Tom leaves a legacy of faith, service, laughter, and fierce loyalty to Kelly; Pete, Curry, Miller, Annie, Juilette, and Thomas Glanton; Grace, Evan, Lucy, Davis, and Jack Brooks; Bess, Luke, Barry, Dot, and Garrett Waters; sister Wynn Grisham; mother-in-law Margaret Garrett; sister-in-law Dana (Richard) Diment; brothers-in-law Ben (Kristi) Garrett and Greg (Beth) Garrett; and many adoring nieces and nephews.

Friends and family will gather to celebrate Tom's life at Carrollton First Methodist Church on Saturday, April 11th at 2:00pm. Reverend Dr. Robert Brown will officiate. There will be a celebration of life immediately following at Venue on Cedar.

In remembrance, please consider donating to the Building to Build Community Fund at Community First United Methodist Church, or The Brooks, Glanton, Waters Fund at the Community Foundation of West Georgia which provides grants to support essential needs for Carrollton City Schools students. (https://givebutter.com/ccsedfdn-scholarships-funds)

Messages of condolences may be expressed to the family at www.almonfuneralhome.com.

Almon Funeral Home of Carrollton has charge of arrangements.