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Thomas "Tom" Fredric Gorland
October 8, 1946 ~ September 3, 2023 (age 76)
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Thomas Fredric Gorland, known affectionately as "Tom" to his loved ones and friends, passed away in Dothan, Alabama, on September 3, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Miami, Florida on October 8, 1946, Tom was a beacon of joy, selflessness, and faith throughout his 76 years of life.
Tom was a loving and devoted husband to his wife, Virginia Darline Gorland, for 51 wonderful years. He was a beloved father to their four children, Michael (KK) Gorland, Kimberly Gorland, Michelle (Phillip) Kirkland, and Jennifer (Josh) McDonald. His love extended to his seven grandchildren, Tucker and Tanner Kirkland, Anslee, Whitley, and Hudson McDonald, Declan and Shepherd Gorland, who he cherished dearly. He is also survived by his brother Ron (Trish) Gorland, sisters Irene Heckert and Barbie (Norman) Andresen, sister-in-law Belinda (Bill) Benak, brother-in-law Joe Randy (Vickie) Green, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
Tom received his Bachelor's Degree in History from Florida State University. His professional journey led him to be an Air Traffic Controller, but his true passion was found in serving others, particularly those in need. In 1986, Tom made Dothan his home and became one of the founding members of The Wiregrass Children's Home, dedicating over 33 years of his life to the cause. He received the Presidential Award in 2021 for his tireless service to the home.
Tom was a man of many interests, but his family was always at the heart of everything he did. He was a funny guy, always ready to lighten the mood with a joke, and he never met a stranger. His love for his children and grandchildren was immeasurable. Tom was a faithful member of Christ Church International, often being the first to arrive and the last to leave. His commitment to his faith was as steadfast as his commitment to his family.
A celebration of Tom's life will be held at 2 pm on Thursday, September 7, 2023, at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. David Delvecchio and Rev. Travis Free officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 1-2 pm. Flowers are being accepted or memorial contributions may be made in Tom's honor to The Wiregrass Children's Home, wiregrasschildrenshome.org/donate.
Tom's life was guided by a quote from Mother Teresa: "Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love." Tom lived this quote, showing great love in all he did, from his dedication to serving those in need to the love he showed his family. His legacy of selflessness, love, and faith will live on in the hearts of all those he touched.
As we remember Thomas Fredric Gorland, we celebrate a man of great character, a loving family man, a dedicated servant to his community, and a faithful follower of Christ. His life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and service. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to inspire all those who were fortunate enough to know him.
Provided by Pat Pierce https://www.sunsetmemorialpark.com/obituary/ThomasTom-Gorland
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Pamela Barnette (Pittman)
To Tom's Family - Sorry to hear of your loss. I'm remembering Tommy from elementary, jr high and high school and FSU. Also remember dancing with him at Cotillion. Prayers and thought are with all of you. Pam (Barnette) Pittman
Toni Canonico (Nasco)
My heartfelt condolences to Darline & his entire family.
Jo Ann McAlhany (Walker)
Tommy (as he will always be to me, not Tom or Thomas) and I grew up on N. Melrose Dr. (he at 173 and me at 149) in Miami Springs. We have known each other since our diaper days. He has always been another brother to me, just from a different set of parents. We have shared toddler days, elementary school, junior high school, cotillion, high school and FSU. We also shared our parents.We fought, loved and suported each other as siblings would do. . He loved life and his family more than anything. I will miss him.
Mike Heffner
Tom Goslin
I first met Tom in kindergarden, since both of our names started with "Go" we were seated next to each other. All through elementary school we often had the same teacher and again were seated beside each other. After high school we both went to Miami Dade Jr College and for two years we car pooled together. As others have already said he was a great guy and always brought out the best in everyone. He will be missed but I know he is in a better place now.
Caryl Gardner (Broaderick)
I remember Tom very well from HS. We had classes together and he will be remembered as a fine human being and look forward to reconnecting in Heaven.
Bob Mullinax
I was fortunate enough to attend Tom's funeral service yesterday and witnessed a wonderful celebration of love attributed to Tom's life. Tom lived a life of serving others starting with his family and extending out to whomever he met. His personality was infectious. Those who came in contact with him left with a feeling that they had encountered someone who cared about them. I could always see Jesus in every encounter with Tommy. I walked away realizing our lives do make a difference and it really matters. In the end what matters is what we have shared and taught others about love ; not our fourtunes, but our character. What will matter is how long we will be remembered, by whom and for what. Tom's legacy will be carried on for generations through his children and their children. Thank you Tom for your service to your family, our country and others.
Terry Lucas
This one hit me hard. When we were at FSU together, Tom spent alot of time with Gerry Masse and me along with several other close friends. We all would see each other during the week, but most of all, we had a large group that always socialized together on the weekends. Tom even roomed with Gerry and I for a semester before he graduated. He would ride back to Miami with us sometimes on the weekend to see his family. As so often happens after graduation, people go in all different directions and often lose touch with one another. I have known that Tom and Darlene and his family lived in Dothan for several years. Gerry and I often talked about getting in touch with them and going out for dinner etc. The regret is that I never attempted to contact him and I am truly sorry for that. Tom was a really great guy who would always manage to put a smile on your face. He loved life and I can only hope that he did not suffer too much with that horrible disease. This should be a lesson for all of us about keeping in touch with friends and loved ones! Tom, old friend R.I.P.