Tom Messimore

February 18, 1939 — April 12, 2024

Broken Arrow

A celebration of life service for Richard Thomas “Tommy” Messimore will be 10:00 a.m., Thursday, April 18, 2024, at MMS-Payne Funeral Home Chapel. Tommy passed away on Friday, April 12, 2024, at his home. He was 85.

Richard Thomas “Tommy” Messimore was born on February 18, 1939, in Pryor, Oklahoma, to James William and Marjorie Marie (Wallis) Messimore. He attended school first at Harmony Starr, then later at Sequoyah, graduating with the class of 1957.

Tommy had a fulfilling career working in farm equipment sales for various companies including Heston Corporation, Woods, and Rhino Farm Equipment. He also dedicated his time to auctioneering at Mr. Eds Auction House and assisting with various aspects of the auctions.

Described as a great friend and neighbor, Tommy was always willing to lend a helping hand and was a vigilant lookout for the neighborhood. A true people person, he had the remarkable ability to strike up conversations with anyone and never met a stranger.

In his personal life, Tommy found immense joy in spending time with his family, particularly his grandchildren who lovingly referred to him as "Papa Cookie". He had an affinity for bluegrass music and looked forward to attending the festivals at Silver Dollar City annually. Another passion of his was traveling to Red River in New Mexico.

Tommy will be dearly missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his loving wife Judith Messimore; his children Michelle Freeman and Michael Messimore and his wife Piper; grandchildren Solomon Messimore and Joah Messimore; brother Johnny Messimore and sister-in-law Nancy; nephews Marcus Messimore and wife Angela, Jayson Messimore, and Shane Messimore; as well as great nieces and numerous extended family. Tommy was preceded in death by his parents James and Marjorie Messimore, as well as his brother Jimmy Messimore.

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Service Schedule

Past Services

Celebration of Life

Thursday, April 18, 2024

Starts at 10:00 am (Central time)

MMS-Payne Funeral Home and Cremation Services-Claremore

102 W 5th St, Claremore, OK 74017

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