Elmer "Tommy" Tinsley

Elmer "Tommy" Tinsley, 86, of Beaver Dam, Kentucky, passed away at his home on Saturday, March 9, 2024. He was born May 14, 1937, in Hartford, Kentucky to Barnett and Cora (Trogden) Tinsley. He was a long-time member of Cedar Grove Baptist Church and cherished his church family.

Born and raised in Ohio County, Tommy graduated from Hartford High School in 1955. That same year Tommy enlisted in the United States Army and served four years from 1955-1958. He was part of the 3rd Armored Division, serving during the occupation of Germany.

Shortly after returning home from his discharge, Tommy met Linda through mutual friends. They were married on December 28, 1959. Together, they raised their two boys, Randy and Rick, as well as countless dogs. Most notable is Annie, their miniature pincher they received as a 50th wedding anniversary gift. As one of his grandchildren once put it, a Tinsley family tradition is always to have a family dog.

Always known as a hard worker, Tommy had many jobs including construction, steel worker, tobacco farmer, coal miner, and electrician. Tommy settled into a career as an electrician for General Electric eventually becoming a Master Electrician before his retirement in 1997. After retirement, Tommy and his wife spent much of their time traveling. He visited all 50 states and over 20 different countries. However, Tommy always had an affinity for Germany. Several times throughout his life he would travel back to Germany to see familiar places, experience his favorite German foods and customs, and visit with friends. Later in his retirement, Tommy was honored with the title of Kentucky Colonel, something of which he was very proud.

Tommy is preceded in death by his wife, Linda Tinsley, his parents, Barnett and Cora Tinsley, and his brothers, Hubert and Royce Tinsley. Left to honor his memory are his children Randall (Lori) Tinsley and Richard (Carol) Tinsley, and his grandchildren Kady (Reverand) Tinsley, Connor Tinsley, and Morgan Tinsley.

The family will receive friends 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm Wednesday, March 13 and from 9:00 am - 2:00 pm Thursday March 14 at Hartford Funeral Home. Funeral service will be 2:00 pm Thursday March 14 with Bro. David Embry officiating. Burial will follow in the Oakwood Cemetery.

Condolences to the family may be made at hartfordfh.com.