Tommy Grindstaff, age 88, of McCaysville, GA, passed away on May 24, 2023 peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Gilmer County, GA to the late Avery and Carrie Stanley Grindstaff on November 15, 1934. At age 27, Tommy joined Damascus Baptist Church where he was a dedicated longtime member and also served as a deacon for 60 years.

He worked hard his entire life. Tommy was drafted into the United States Army where he proudly served his country. After being honorably discharged, he went to work in the steel mill industry in Indiana before owning and operating his junkyard for over 60 years where he proudly served his community. Tommy was a member of the McCay Lodge #423 F&AM and the Yaarab Shrine Temple where he recently received his 50 year membership pin for both organziations. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Lola Patterson, Hildred Dalton, Evelyn Martin, Jack, Hoyt, Truman, Edward, Jimmy, and Billy Grindstaff.

Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Patricia Grindstaff; children, Roseann Tuttle of McCaysville, GA and David Grindstaff of Blue Ridge, GA; grandchildren, Jill and Keith Karlsen of Ooltewah, TN, Benjamin Tuttle and Charitty Tuttle and Collin Queen all of McCaysville, GA; great grandchildren, Amalie Karlsen, Tommi Karlsen and Liv Karlsen; and a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be conducted on Friday, May 26, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. from the Damascus Baptist Church with Rev. Billy Ray Queen officiating. Music will be by Pat Mashburn. Interment will follow in the Church cemetery with Rev. Danny Collis officiating. Pallbearers will be Bill Newman, Billy O'Neal, Ricky Beach, Randy Beach, Mike Grindstaff, Drew Anderson, George Ensley and Daniel Allen. The following gentlemen were selected as honorary pallbearers: Butch Pittman, Garland Nicholson, Kenny Waters, Tommy Hyde, Danny Johnson and Kenneth Patterson. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday evening from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.akinscobb.com. Akins-Cobb Funeral & Cremations of Blue Ridge, GA is in charge of the arrangements.