Tommie Olton Mankins Jr.

Tommie Olton Mankins Jr, age 71, was born on November 5, 1952, and unexpectedly passed away on June 12, 2024, in Crandall, Texas. Tommie was a devoted Christian, husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, friend, leader, and coach. He had a warm and welcoming personality, never meeting a stranger and always eager to share his stories with others. Tommie embodied the golden rule, treating others with kindness and respect.

He took great pride in his family and found joy in witnessing the success of those he mentored and coached, inspiring them to reach beyond their perceived limitations. Tommie dedicated himself to guiding and supporting teenagers and young adults through the most transformative years of their lives with unwavering effort, grace, and understanding.

Tommie was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Kaufman, where he served as a Deacon. He made himself readily available to serve the community through a variety of events, always willing to lend a helping hand and make a positive impact.

Growing up in Plano, Texas, Tommie was surrounded by the love of his large family. While attending Plano High School, he played guard and outside linebacker for the Plano Wildcats. His dedication and skill on the field contributed to the team's success, although they ended their state run his senior year with a semi-final defeat.

After high school, Tommie continued his education at UT Arlington before ultimately graduating from the University of North Texas. His academic achievements were a testament to his hard work and commitment to furthering his knowledge.

One of Tommie’s greatest passions was coaching. Throughout his career, Tom coached at Plano High School, Cypress Creek High School, Quinlan Ford High School, North Lamar High School, North Garland High School, Crandall High School, Forney High School, and North Forney High School. During his coaching tenure, Tommie was able to coach a variety of sports including football, powerlifting, track, and golf. His dedication and leadership on the field left a lasting impact on countless athletes.

He also served as a beloved history teacher, sharing his passion for the subject with his students. In addition to history, he enjoyed teaching AP Psychology and continued to inspire and educate in his later teaching years.

Tommie is survived by his loving wife, Debbie, daughter Mollie, son-in-law Todd, grandson Dominic, brother-in-law John Tankersley, nephew Chris Tankersley, nephew Kevin Rush and his wife Holly, great nieces Lindsey Rush and Saundra Monroe, as well as numerous other relatives, friends, students, and athletes whose lives he touched. He was preceded in death by his father, Tommie O Mankins Sr., his mother, Gladys Mankins, his sister, Sue Tankersley, his brother Glenn Rush, and sister Glenda Denman.

A lasting way to honor Tommie's legacy is to express love and appreciation to those who are dear to you. Tommie's impact on the lives of those he encountered will forever be remembered and cherished.

The family will Celebrate Tommie's life with a gathering of family and friends on Sunday, June 16, 2024, at Parker-Ashworth Funeral Home from 5-7pm, followed by a service of remembrance on Monday, June 17, 2024, at First Baptist Church of Kaufman at 1pm and interment at Plano Mutual Cemetery.