Thomas Mangrum

Thomas Freeman Mangrum, 96, formerly of Albemarle, NC passed away March 31, 2021 at W.G. Bill Hefner VA Medical Center in Salisbury, NC.

Tom was born March 28, 1925 in Franklin, Williamson County, TN to the late Zebia "Zibbie" Maze Mangrum and Mattie Elizabeth "Bessie" Martin Mangrum. He was also preceded in death his three wives, Betty Simmons Mangrum, Zora Mae Lambert Mangrum, and Geraldine Thomas Mangrum; brother, Maze Zebia Mangrum, Jr.; and one stepson, John Thomas II.

Tom entered into the Navy in March, 1943.  He served his country during World War II, Korean War, and the Vietnam War.  He retired in 1964 with an Honorable Discharge and many medals.

Tom lived in Albemarle since 1950.  He became a 32nd Degree Mason of the Scottish Rite, and was a Shriner.  During his residency, he served Stanly County in many capacities.  During his 96 years of life, he traveled the world, saw many historical changes in world politics and the environment, inventions, and men walking on the moon, not to mention space exploration.  He lived a full life and we pray our Heavenly Father will bless him with divine grace.

The graveside service to celebrate his life will be at 1:00 pm, Monday, April 5, 2021 at Fairview Memorial Park in Albemarle. He will lie in state for 30 minutes prior to the service. Military honors will be conducted by the United States Army Honor Guard.

Tom is survived by his daughter, Donna Ree (Bill) Mangrum Kaminski of Colorado Springs, CO; brother, Carmen F. (Geneva) Mangum of Franklin, TN,  stepdaughter, Linda (Carey Green) Lamp of Biscoe, NC; granddaughter, Stephenie Lynn Claree Kaminski of Colorado Springs, CO; step-grandson, Sam (Tiffany) Lamp of Albemarle, NC; five great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to the Masonic Home for Children, 600 College St, Oxford, NC 27565.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle is serving the family.

Online condolences may be made at www.hartsellfh.com