- Thomas Alan Grider, 59, Kokomo, passed away December 25, 2011 at his residence in Murfreesboro, TN. He was born in Kokomo to the late Herman P. and Betty J. (Lammerts) Grider on August 12, 1952. He first married Beverly (Mast), then, later married Stephanie (Doran). They both divorced. Thomas graduated from Lewis Cass High School, then went on and attended Indiana University here in Kokomo. After college, he served our country in the National Guard. Thomas then joined the Kokomo Police Department on September 14, 1978 and served as a police officer for 22 years until retiring at the rank of Sergeant on July 21, 2000. During his time as a police officer, his greatest accomplishment was the foundation of Tomorrow's Hope, a child advocacy home, for neglected and abused children. For his work, Tom received the honor of being awarded as The Top Cop of the State in 1999. Thomas was a huge Elvis fan, and an avid golfer. He enjoyed attending Vanderbilt University sporting events. He also enjoyed spending time with his family and friends especially his grandchildren. He was a member of the Kokomo Shrine Club, Fraternal Order of Police, Moose Lodge #645 of Murfreesboro, TN, and St. Paul's Episcopal Church of Murfreesboro, TN. Surviving is his two children; Jamie A. (Kelley) Grider, Murfreesboro, TN, Jennifer (Ryan) Smalley Kokomo, IN, two brothers: John L. Grider, Murfreesboro, TN, Jody (Christi) Grider, Ontario, Canada, five grandchildren; Nolan Smalley, Noah Smalley, Brennan Grider, Rylan Grider, Dawson Grider, one niece; Towana Smith, one nephew; Johnny Grider Preceded in death; his parents; one brother, Daniel Grider, and one sister; Towana Grider Funeral services will be held at 10:00AM, Friday, December 30, 2011 with Rev. Ken Spanglar officiating. Entombment will follow at Kokomo Memorial Park with military rites provided by the local VFW, and the United States Army. Friends may visit with the family from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM Thursday, at Ellers Webster Street Chapel. Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Judes Children Hospital.
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1952 - 2011 (59 years)
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