Tommy Joe Applegate

Memorial service for Tommy Joe Applegate will be 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 3, 2023, at Calvary Baptist Church, Inola.  Tommy passed away on Thursday, December 29, 2022.  He was 80.
 
Born January 19, 1942, in Inola, Oklahoma to Eddie Allen and Hazel Opal (Holt) Applegate, Tommy attended Bull Creek School.  He grew up helping on the family farm before going to work for Union Standard at the age of 14. From there he went to work for Tulsa Rock for 13 years. He then became self-employed as a diver for mussels, which allowed him to travel all over the country. After this, he started his own business, Applegate Backhoe and Dozer Service. He ran the business until he retired.
 
Tommy was a hard worker and provided well for his family. At the age of 17 he married Carol Jean Sly on March 27th, 1959. They had four children whom they grew up with.  When he was not working, he enjoyed hunting and fishing.  When he was younger, he like to water ski, play horseshoes, and mumble peg, but most of all he loved spending time with his family. His home was the hub of many family gatherings. Tommy was known for his honesty and integrity and when he gave you his word, it could be taken to the bank.  He was very dependable, giving, and would help anyone in need.   
 
This wonderful father, grandfather, and friend will be missed by all who knew him.  Those family members that survive include his children Tommy Joe "Joey" Applegate, Jr. and wife Kim, Elisa Johnston and husband Lesley, Regina Wing and husband Rick, and Karen Parker; grandchildren Brian Dobson and wife Shannon, Samantha Miller, Lacy Applegate and Dustin, Levi Applegate and wife Dayna, Jacob Parker and wife Whitney, Dane Delmedico and wife Natalie, Andrea Fugate and husband Chad, Cody Wing, Logan Applegate and wife Kayla, and Taylor Hipp and husband Cody; 19 great-grandchildren; brother Jimmy Applegate and wife Karla.  Tommy was preceded in death by his parents Eddie and Hazel Applegate, wife Carol Jean Applegate, Son-In-Law Dennis Parker, Great Grandson Braden Dobson, siblings Stella Whitten, Edward Applegate, Harry Applegate, T.A. Applegate, and Linda Luster.