Tommy Waldrop

Jim Tom "Tommy" Waldrop, a dedicated individual known for his passion for agriculture and education, passed away on May 8, 2024, in his hometown of Tifton. Born on October 17, 1954, in Tifton, Tommy's journey through life was marked by his unwavering commitment to his work and his deep love for his family.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, May 13, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. in the Chapel of Albritton Funeral Directors. The family will receive friends from 10:00 A.M. to 10:45 A.M. before the service. A private interment will be at a later date. 

Tommy's career in the agricultural sector was illustrious and impactful. He began as a self-employed farmer with Waldrop Farms in 1978, where he honed his skills and knowledge of the industry. His expertise led him to become an Agricultural Teacher for young farmers with Ben Hill County from 1999 to 2006. Subsequently, Tommy served as the State of GA Regional Livestock Specialist until his retirement in 2019. Throughout his tenure, he participated as a superintendent of the GA National Fair Swine Show, the GA Junior National Market Swine Show, the GA Junior National Market Goat Show, the Albany Exchange Club Fair Livestock Show, and the Agriculture Education CDE and LDES in the Area and State Levels with the following accomplishments: Parliamentary Procedure LDE, Discussion Meet LDE (State Superintendent), FFA Week Observance, Animal Science Proficiency’s, Livestock Evaluation CDE, Meats Evaluation CDE, Poultry Evaluation CDE (State Superintendent), Dairy Evaluation CDE (State Superintendent), Equine Evaluation CDE, Veterinarian Science CDE, and Agriculture Sales LDE. He also participated as a coordinator of the Junior Beef Futurity Scholarship Contest. Not only was Tommy dedicated to his profession, but he also excelled academically, earning a Bachelor's Degree from ABAC and UGA in Animal Science. 
 
Beyond his professional achievements, Tommy found joy in various hobbies and interests. He was an avid bicyclist, jogger, and deer hunter. Tommy took pleasure in tending to his vegetable garden, working at livestock shows, and cheering on his grandchildren during their sports activities.
 
Some of Tommy's proudest accomplishments was running in several of the Peachtree Marathons in Atlanta—a testament to his determination and resilience.
 
Tommy is survived by his two brothers, William Waldrop (Sherry) and Ricky Waldrop (Vickie); one daughter, Joanna Waldrop Graves (William) of Tifton; one son, Tom Waldrop (Heather) of Tifton; along with three beloved grandchildren: Parker Graves, John Waldrop, and Olivia Waldrop. He is predeceased by his grandson Briggs Graves.
 
Tommy Waldrop will be remembered fondly for his kindness, dedication, and unwavering love for both agriculture and family. May he rest in peace knowing that he has left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations may be made Georgia Young Farmers Association, ABAC 34- 2802 Moore Hwy. Tifton, GA 31793, or online at mbius@gaaged.org.

Albritton Funeral Directors is in charge of the arrangements. You may sign the online guest register at www.albrittonfuneral.com.