Thomas Martin Temple

Thomas M. Temple, Sr., passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Saturday, January 25, 2025, in Louisville, Kentucky.

Born on July 12, 1934, in Owensboro, Kentucky, the family moved to Louisville during his seventh-grade year. He attended Male High School before transferring to Shawnee High School, where he graduated in the class of 1956. Determined to further his education, Tom enrolled at the University of Kentucky and earned a degree in Radio and Television Communication. His career began as a reporter for Wave News. A proud veteran of the United States Army, Tom was honored with the Army Commendation Medal for his service. He served as press and public relations manager for Third District Congressman Gene Snyder before transitioning to a distinguished 50-year career as a financial advisor with Stein Brothers and Boyce, now Wells Fargo Financial Advisors.

Tom’s life was marked by his deep faith and dedication to community service. As an active member of Crestwood United Methodist Church and the Open-Door Sunday School Class, he served in many capacities on the Council on Ministries of the Church. A devoted member of the South Oldham Lions Club for over 60 years, Tom received two Lions International Service Awards for his contributions. He also served on the boards of the Mallory Taylor Foundation, the Wilborn Foundation, and the Kentucky United Methodist Foundation, where he was its longest-serving member. Additionally, he helped establish The Bank-Oldham County as an originating board member. Tom was a member of the Honorable Order of  Kentucky Colonels.

In his personal life, Tom found joy in gardening, experimenting with bar-b-que recipes, exploring new restaurants locally and while traveling, and cherishing time spent with family and friends.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Anna Thomson Temple and William Noah Temple; brothers William, Robert, Donald; and sister Shirley Masden.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 64 years, Grace Haas Temple; children Tom Temple (Karla) and Pam Temple-Jennings; and grandsons Hunter Jennings, Nathan Temple, and Evan Temple, and sister, Deanna Temple Mobley and nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 30, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at Stoess Funeral Home, 6534 W Hwy 22, Crestwood, KY. with additional visitation on Friday, January 31, from 9:30 a.m. until the funeral service at 11:00 a.m., at Crestwood United Methodist Church, 7214 Kavanaugh Rd, Crestwood, KY.

Tom's warmth and love for life will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Our hope is the memory of his fun-loving humor, love for life and genuine kindness bring peace and comfort to those who mourn his passing.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Crestwood United Methodist Church Endowment Fund or Yew Dell Gardens.

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