Thomas William Brabston, Sr.

Thomas William Brabston, Sr, age 87, a resident of Gulf Shores and longtime resident of Ono Island, AL, died peacefully with his wife at his side listening to the Rosary, Saturday, April 19, 2025.

He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Mary Wilda Hirth Brabston; and his children, Lori Brabston of Foley, AL, Thomas W. Brabston, Jr. of Mobile, AL, Lisa (Michael) Fawcett of Greenville, SC, and Carla (Link) Forester of Roswell, GA.

Bill (Billy) was born at home in Vicksburg, MS, moved to Pascagoula, MS and graduated high school at Our Lady of Victory. He then received his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Mississippi State University, where he was also a walk-on football player and a Distinguished Military Graduate of the Army ROTC, being appointed as a Reserved Commissioned Officer as a Second Lieutenant in the Army. Upon his graduation, Bill began working for International Paper Company rising from engineer to mill manager. He then worked for 4 years at Riverwood in Macon, GA as mill manager before finally retiring. They built their dream home at Ono Island, AL and lived there for 20 years.

Long time faithful Catholics, Bill and Mary were members of St Thomas, participating as Eucharistic Ministers together, Knight/usher for Bill and Altar Society for Mary. Together, they worked many a Thursday night Bingo raising money for Mary’s shelter. Dad called the bingo numbers and mom prepared/served the food. He was a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus and was active in many charitable activities.

Bill was an avid outdoorsman, enjoyed hunting and fishing and boating with his family. Bill and Mary also traveled in their RV and went on numerous cruises. They were active with their children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren attending weddings, Baptisms, graduations, and sporting events. Dad was a lifelong Bulldog but also loved his Auburn family and attended many tailgates/games.

Parents
Preceding him in death are his parents, William Patrick Brabston, Sr. and Annie Laurie Ford Brabston; and his brothers, Robert Brabston and Larry Brabston.

Siblings
Surviving siblings include Patrick (Pat) William Brabston, Jr., Donald Brabston, and Carey (Withee) Brabston from MS.

Grandchildren
He has 11 beloved grandchildren Banks (Laura) Forester; Reid (Lisa) Fawcett, Sara (Sam) Kercheval, Cole (Kayla) Forester, Thomas Fawcett, Bryan W. Brabston IV, Dr. Caroline Forester, and Tyler Forester (deceased), Will Brabston, Anna Brabston, and Meghan (Patrick) Krieger.

Great grandchildren
He has 8 great grandchildren who include Banks Forester, Jr, Hayes Forester, Wells Forester, Lane Forester, Roman Forester, Jordan Kercheval, James Krieger, and Millie Fawcett.

Special Thanks
Special thanks to his caregiver Vanessa Gray, CNA, and Kelly Love, Gentiva Hospice, and Suzanne Lanier, St. Thomas parishioner, who has lovingly coordinated services. We would also like to acknowledge Rock Steady of Gulf Shores, a program for Parkinson clients.

Funeral services will be held at St. Thomas By the Sea Catholic Church at 26547 Perdido Beach Blvd, Orange Beach, AL, on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 11:00 am. The family will receive friends/family one hour prior to the service with a private viewing for family members.

Reception to be held in church hall with refreshments provided by the Altar Society.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Thomas by the Sea Catholic Church, Orange Beach, AL https://www.eservicepayments.com/cgi-bin/Vanco_ver3.vps?pagetoken=5f011e1d8f83186a68c60343f7867a0499641b35 

Interment will be at the Alabama State Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 34904 State Highway 225, Spanish Fort, AL 36527 on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at 11:00 am where there will be a committal service performed by Deacon Steve Seymour and military honors to follow.

ARRANGEMENTS BY
WOLFE-BAYVIEW
FUNERAL HOMES
& CREMATORY, INC.
2103 W. 1st STREET
GULF SHORES, AL 36542
(251) 405-2601
www.wolfefuneralhomes.com