Dr. Thomas J. Anderson

Dr. Thomas J. Anderson, 95, passed away on Sunday, January 14th, 2024 in Laurel, Mississippi, in the loving presence of his family and friends. Affectionately known as Tom or "Bub" to his loved ones, he was born on May 28, 1928, in Ellisville, Mississippi, to Amos Deason Anderson and Laura Lawrence Anderson. As the youngest sibling in a family of twelve, Tom embraced a life of learning and service early on. He earned an Associate of Science degree from Jones County Community College, a Bachelor of Science from the University of Southern Mississippi, a Master of Science from the University of Mississippi, and ultimately, his Medical Degree from the University of Tennessee School of Medicine. He completed his internship at St. Vincent's Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida. His pursuit of excellence led him to serve as a general medical officer in the United States Air Force. Returning to Jones County in 1959, Dr. Anderson began a distinguished private medical practice that spanned until 2001. He was a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Practice and held esteemed positions such as president of the medical staff at Jones County Community Hospital, president of the South Mississippi Medical Society, and president of the Mississippi Academy of Family Practice. Dr. Anderson's most cherished work was at the Good Shepherd Clinic, where he dedicated his skills to helping those without insurance or with insufficient coverage. Dr. Anderson's life was rich with interests beyond his medical practice. He was a world traveler, a passionate gardener, an enthusiastic boater, an avid fisherman and a lifetime fan of his beloved St. Louis Cardinals. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife and mother of his children, Katherine Blair Anderson; his daughter, Laura Allene Anderson; his son, Thomas Lawrence Anderson; his grandson, John Anderson; his second wife, Nelline Jones Anderson; his parents; and all of his eleven siblings. His legacy continues through his daughters, Kathy Anderson Dearman (Reggie) of Collinsville, MS, Suzanne Anderson of Laurel, MS; and his son, Glenn Anderson of Waynesboro, MS. He is also fondly remembered by his eight grandchildren: Jeffrey Anderson (Linzey) of Port Saint Lucie, FL; Lauren Anderson Bannister (Jonathan) of Prosper, TX; Brian King (Pam) of Vestavia Hills, AL; Michael Anderson (Caitlyn) of Tacoma, WA; Leah Anderson Holland (Drew) of Gulfport, MS; Andrew Dearman (Jessica) of New Orleans, LA; Jacob King (Rachel) of Northport, AL; and Forrest Boyd of Vestavia Hills, AL; as well as by a cherished assembly of great-grandchildren. Dr. Anderson's life was a beacon of dedication and compassion, shining through his contributions to medicine and his unwavering faith. His memory will be treasured and his impact deeply felt by the community he served so faithfully. His family and friends will gather to honor his remarkable journey at First Methodist Church in Laurel, MS on Thursday, January 18th. Visitation will be held at 1 p.m. followed by a memorial service at 2 p.m. and then a graveside service will follow in Shubuta, MS. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Good Shepherd Clinic in Laurel, MS to continue the legacy of care that Dr. Anderson championed throughout his life. To sign the online guest book, visit www.memorychapellaurel.com.

Dr. Thomas J. Anderson

May 28, 1928 - January 14, 2024