Tom Stocks

Thomas Franklin Stocks V, age 79, passed away peacefully at his home in Forsyth County on July
10th, 2023.

Tom was born on October 20th, 1943, at Crawford Long Hospital in Atlanta, GA to Thomas F
Stocks IV and Gloria L Stocks. He attended Medlock Elementary, Druid Hills High School, and
Georgia State University.

Tom was an integral part of a loving family which includes his wife Barbara L Stocks of 38 years,
son Thomas F Stocks VI, stepchildren John Swartz, Joanne (Andy) Matz, Jane (Lenny) Orange,
and Jennifer (Chris) Gleaves; grandson Thomas F Stocks VII; step-grandchildren Talley J Power
(deceased), Baylee Hogan Power (deceased), Leiten Alan Gleaves, and Kelsey Marie Buikema;
former wife Elizabeth S Stocks, sister Gayle Barron, uncles Joe Stearns (deceased) and Frank
Stocks (deceased), aunt Carter Stocks (deceased), cousins Sandra (Jeff Thomas) Stocks and Kelly
(Bob Peatman) Stocks, Carter Peatman, and Hunter Peatman; brother-in-law William (Jacki)
Raffle, and nephew Michael Raffle.

Tom was a pioneer and respected by all in the Information Technology (IT) industry from its
inception in the late 1960's until his retirement from ABM Industries in the early 2010’s. He was
an enthusiastic, resolute IT professional, having served in various roles in multiple organizations
in the Atlanta area throughout his extensive career.

He embraced life with irrepressible energy, joy, and confidence in a positive outcome in every
situation regardless of the challenge. He lived his life guided by his belief in teamwork and
putting others’ needs and desires before his own. He was a great father, husband, grandfather,
cheerleader, a friend to all and stranger to none. His personality and sense of humor made him
a celebrity at every restaurant, grocery store, doctor's office, pharmacy, and hospital. He always
had a warm hug and a ready smile for everyone. Tom never ended a visit or conversation
without telling you that he loved you. His playful nature and Elvis-like thick black hair (even at
79) made him look and feel a decade+ younger than his contemporaries.

Tom was the unofficial meteorologist, human GPS, movie critic, and great tipper with an
infectious “go get ‘em” attitude which he expressed with, “Everything is peachy keen fine and
wonderful; His emphasis on discipline, accountability, promptness, work ethic, appreciation
for others, and generous spirit has left an enduring legacy.

The family extends heartfelt appreciation to the many dedicated, loving, skilled caregivers who
blessed Tom and his family with their invaluable friendship, support, and compassion during his
last months. Their care was a gift beyond measure.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 11 o’clock on Friday, August 4, 2023, at
the Fieldstone Recreation Center, 3350 Elder Field Lane, Cumming, GA 30040.

In Tom’s memory, donations may be made to Jesse’s House https://www.jesseshouse.org/. For
additional information, please visit Canton Funeral Home and Cemetery
www.cantonfuneralhome.com.