Thomas Arnold Partridge of The Villages, Florida, passed away on October 20, 2025, at the age of 92. He was born just outside of Lanett, Alabama, on July 9, 1933, to Thomas “Guy” Partridge and Hazel Boggs Partridge. He grew up in Fairfax, Alabama, along with his sisters, Faye Wilson and Linda Walls.
As a young man, Tom was active in the Boy Scouts and achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, earning numerous awards. He played football in high school and, after graduation, proudly served his country in the United States Navy. Following his service, he attended Auburn University, where his lifelong love for Auburn football began.
In 1954, Tom met the love of his life, Judith “Judy” Partridge, and they married on December 23, 1955. Together they shared 59 wonderful years before her passing in 2015. They raised two sons, Tyler Partridge and Stephen Partridge, and created countless cherished memories, especially their time spent together at their lake place.
Tom built a long and successful career in public safety. He worked for many years at the Medical College of Georgia, retiring as Assistant Director of Public Safety. He and his late wife Judy also worked together at Duke University and at one time was a proud Mason.
Tom was very charismatic, and loved to make people laugh. He had a knack for story-telling, he was a jokester, and would even tell some whoppers. He was also a passionate golfer, spending more than 40 years working with The Masters, where he met many wonderful people and formed lifelong friendships. A talented player himself, Tom loved to boast about shooting his age—until he turned 90, when he jokingly left that part out. He continued playing regularly with his “Brew Crew” well into his 90s, only setting his clubs aside about nine months ago.
Tom loved fishing, spending time with family, and cheering on his Auburn Tigers. He was truly one of a kind—funny, kind-hearted, and full of life. You never met a person who didn’t love him.
Tom was predeceased by his parents, Thomas “Guy” and Hazel Partridge; his sister, Faye Wilson; and his beloved wife, Judith Partridge.
He is survived by his sons, Tyler (Debbie) and Stephen (Kelly) Partridge; his grandchildren, Jenifer, Joshua, Kristy, Brookelyn, and Fallyn; eleven great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; his sister, Linda Walls; and his companion of the last few years, Judy.
Tom will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his laughter, stories, and spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.