Thomas Howell Gifford

Thomas Howell Gifford, 89, of Dallas, GA, entered into the glory of his Lord on Saturday, November 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving family in Marietta, GA. A celebration of his life will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Mayes Ward Dobbins Funeral Home in Marietta, GA. The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM prior to the service. Interment will take place immediately following the service at Marietta City Cemetery. Tom was born on October 30, 1936, and lived a long, full, and committed life marked by devotion to family, faith, service, and community. Tom spent 30 years as a dedicated employee of AT&T, beginning his career as a lineman and advancing into management by the late 1980s. His strong work ethic and natural leadership opened the door to his next chapter as an entrepreneur. In 1981, while still working for AT&T, he founded Gifford Electronics, Inc., an electronic security and consulting firm that he successfully operated for over 25 years before selling the company in 2007. His combined experience in communication, security, surveillance, safety, interviews, and discreet inquiries spanned more than 45 years. A lifelong learner and seasoned professional, Tom held numerous accreditations in the security field. He attended the University of Georgia, Georgia State College, and the University of New Mexico, and was a proud graduate of the National Crime Prevention Institute, School of Justice Administration, specializing in Crime and Loss Prevention and Security Consultation. Tom was an active member of several professional organizations, including the National Association of Chiefs of Police, the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police, the Georgia Association of Private Investigators, and the Georgia Peace Officers Association. He served the Georgia Burglar & Fire Alarm Association for more than 15 years as a Training Coordinator, Officer, and Regional Director. In 1996, he received the distinguished honor of National Board of Fire Alarm Association Instructor of the Year. Tom was also an avid and knowledgeable firearms enthusiast. He was an NRA Certified Instructor for “Refuse to Be a Victim” and developed numerous safety and security courses, conducted training classes, and authored several security-related articles. His expertise made him a trusted subject matter expert for Atlanta-area radio and television outlets, where he provided insight on crime prevention and safety. He also served as a licensed private detective, specializing in asset protection, loss control, and church violence prevention. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Tom was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ and a member of River Stone Church, where he cherished fellowship and worship. He spent over 58 years as a loving and faithful husband to Mary (Pat) Poe Gifford, and together they built a home filled with love, adventure, and family. As a father, he poured his heart into raising five children, always providing guidance, encouragement, and unconditional love. During their younger years, he and Pat created lifelong memories with their family through traveling, cruising, skiing, and countless trips to the beach. Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Mary (Pat) Poe Gifford; his five children, Donna Lynn Moore, Judy (Jude) Gifford, Kathy Gordon, Susan Laurie Gifford, and James Earnest Gifford; and his cherished sons-in-law, Brian Gordon and Robert Frey. He leaves behind a beautiful legacy through his seven grandchildren, eighteen great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. He will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his generosity, his intelligence, his dedication to service, and the deep love he had for his family. Psalm 23:6 “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Thomas Howell Gifford, please visit our Sympathy Store. In lieu of flowers, you can make contributions to Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue.

Thomas Howell Gifford

October 30, 1936 - November 22, 2025