Thomas Roy Wallace

Thomas Roy Wallace, 89, of Savannah, departed this life peacefully on Tuesday, July 15, his family announced with profound sadness and deep love. Born on February 17, 1936, Tom grew up in Savannah, Tennessee, where he spent his early years learning the values of hard work, faith, and family that would shape the rest of his life.
He graduated from Central High School in 1954, where he built lifelong friendships and developed the strong foundation of character that guided his journey.
Tom proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy, where he developed the discipline, dedication, and leadership that would define his life. Following his military service, he continued his commitment to public safety as an Air Traffic Controller, including a distinguished career with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). His work took him and his family to many interesting locations, living in Miami, Florida; Puerto Rico; and the Canal Zone in Panama. These assignments created lasting memories and reflected Tom’s dedication to excellence in high-stakes environments. Additionally, Tom was selected to design and implement an Air Traffic Controller training program for the Republic of Panama. After retiring from the FAA, he was recruited to assist in training the next generation of Air Traffic Controllers at the University of Oklahoma in Oklahoma City, a role he deeply valued. He took pride in mentoring aspiring professionals, sharing not only technical skills but the patience, judgment, and integrity needed to thrive in such a demanding career.
Even after retirement, Tom remained committed to serving others. He worked as a Correctional Officer in both Oklahoma and Tennessee, continuing to contribute to public safety and applying his steady presence and principled nature in a new way.
Tom was married to Ellen Wallace for 66 wonderful years until her passing. Their partnership was a beautiful example of love, loyalty, and strength. Whether through his work, his service, or the love he poured into his family, Tom lived a life of purpose and grace.
Tom is preceded in death by his wife Ellen Sue Wallace; and his grandson, Andrew Wallace.
He is survived by his sons, Rob Wallace and his wife Donette of Cordova, Tennessee, Mike Wallace of Newbern, Tennessee, and Jon Wallace and his wife Stephanie of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; brother Joe Wallace of Cordova, Tennessee; grandchildren, Adam Wallace of Little Rock, Arkansas, Nicole Bowers and her husband Dr. Alex Bowers of San Antonio, Texas, and Audrey Wallace, Quincy Wallace, and Chance Wallace, all of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; and great-grandchild, Theo Bowers of San Antonio, Texas.
Memorial services were held on Monday, July 21, at Shackelford Funeral Directors in Savannah.