Thomas Jerry Kilgore

Thomas Jerry Kilgore, age 70, passed away on December 4, 2023, in Columbus, Georgia. Tommy was born on May 16, 1953, in Fukuoka, Japan and moved to Honolulu, Hawaii a short time later on September 23, 1953. His family then moved to Fort Richardson, Alaska, in 1961 and later moved to Fort Benning, Georgia, living in Columbus, Georgia, where he remained until his passing.

He is survived by his daughter, Ashley Kilgore-Schwab, and her loving husband, Dan Schwab, his stepson, Jason Ibbotson, from his one and only marriage, and Jason’s loving wife, and four grandchildren: Shelby, Kayla, Blanden, and Hunter.

He was preceded in death by his father, James Billy Kilgore of Wise, Virginia, and his mother, Hatsumi Itamura Kilgore of Bofu, Japan.

Tommy was a lover of cars and motorcycles. Shortly after graduating from Kendrick High School, he wrapped his entire career around his hobbies. He knew at a young age that he didn’t have to have a college degree to make money. His street-like persona made him the person he was today. He was loved by many, being a well-known staple in the car and bike community and a known talent in the ever-evolving world of car dealerships across Columbus, Georgia.

He considered himself a “lone rider,” not tolerating the extra nonsense that comes with biker clubs. He would take long trips to eat lunch with his buddies, just to return home to clean his bike. Unknowingly, he also had a soft spot for words, writing poetry in hidden places and taking notes in books. He lived for his Christianity, keeping his Bible right beside him till the very end.

Tommy was a giving, caring, and selfless soul. Always giving to the ones in need. He had an intuition you wouldn’t believe when it came to his surroundings and the people around him. He was strong-willed and stubborn till the very end but, he also had an enormous heart and, at times, a wonderful sense of humor. He was clever and full to the brim of knowledge gained through all his life’s experiences.

He will be remembered for his stubbornness and love he had for his friends and family. He showed his love in ways that left you wondering. When his time came, he carried himself with unbelievable strength, ready to make his way home to the Lord. He will be unfathomably missed by many.

In typical Tom fashion, there are no services or viewings planned. He never wanted to be the center of attention or someone to fuss over. Ride for Tom. Take a ride in memory of your brother, who will forever be beside you no matter where you are.

“Seeing death as the end of life is like seeing the horizon as the end of the ocean.”
| David Searls