Birth Date: 05/18/1964
Deceased Date: 02/06/2020
Tommy Lawrence Upchurch was born May 18, 1964, in Smithfield, NC to the late Rachel M. Smith and Charlie Hargrove. He was reared in Washington, DC until 1976. Afterward, Tommy moved to Princeton, NC and resided with his grandparents, Alexander and Tessie Rhue. He attended Green Chapel and Shiloh Christian churches.
Tommy graduated from Princeton High School and played football throughout his high school days. After high school, he decided to join the United States Army where he completed basic training at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri.
Tommy loved spending time with his family and friends. He loved to travel and meet different people. He never met a stranger. His love for people encouraged him to start his own home health business (Tommy Cares) in Aurora, Colorado, which afforded him various employment opportunities.
He had an infectious smile and a kind, gentle heart that caused him to be loved by so many.
Tommy attended New Generation church under the leadership of Pastor Addie Rawls but later joined the Light Church of Clayton in Clayton, NC under the leadership of Pastor Jewel Lee. Both churches embraced him with open arms.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Pete Upchurch.
Tommy leaves to cherish his memories: his wife, Cynthia Lassiter-Upchurch (of the home), four sons, Kenneth Upchurch, Deron Upchurch, Jermeel (JJ) Upchurch and Isaac Upchurch of Colorado, two brothers; John Upchurch (Rolonda) of Maryland and Robert Upchurch of Charlotte, NC; one sister, Saprina Yvette Mewborn of Charlotte, NC. A host of relatives and friends. A special friend, Lewis Jacobs of Washington, DC, and Godmother, June Jacobs of Washington, DC.
Funeral Service:
Saturday, February 15
3:00 PM
Shiloh Christian Church
211 Durham St.
Smithfield, NC 27577
Interment:
Saturday, February 15
Sunset
Smithfield, NC 27577
Please visit www.rlsandersfuneralhome.net to leave online condolences.
