Thomas M Breckenridge

Master Sergent Thomas M. Breckenridge, USAF (Ret.)

Thomas McKinley Breckenridge was born on July 15, 1969, in Fort Lee, Virginia, to John and Junelle Breckenridge Sr. At an early age, Thomas accepted Christ as his personal Lord and Savior and was baptized at Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Willie Lee Plummer. 

Thomas attended Dermott High School in Dermott, Arkansas, where he graduated with the Class of 1987. Shortly after, he joined the United States Air Force, proudly serving his country for 23 years before retiring in 2011. 

Following his retirement, Thomas made his home in Memphis, Tennessee. He continued his education at the University of Memphis, pursuing a degree in business. 

Thomas had a wide array of passions. He was a devoted fan of the Los Angeles Lakers, USC Trojans, Las Vegas Raiders, Chicago Bears, University of Memphis Tigers, and Memphis Grizzlies. Known for his love of reading, Thomas began reading at just two years old and remained an avid reader throughout his life, with a particular admiration for the works of Walter Mosley. He also enjoyed learning about military and world history, playing golf, racing, trying new foods, and celebrating holidays by popping fireworks with his nieces and nephews. 

Family and friends knew Thomas as someone with a big heart, wisdom, and a ready smile. To his beloved nieces and nephews, he was affectionately known as “Uncle Cheese,” a nickname born from the wide grin he carried into every room. His son, Jalen, remembers him as a proud Kobe Bryant fan, a thoughtful mentor, and a trusted confidant who offered alternative perspectives and valuable life lessons. Among his guiding words were: “All you have to do is do it” and “Plan your work, work your plan.” These lessons will continue to live on in the lives of those he loved. 

On September 25, 2025, Thomas was called to his heavenly home. 

He was preceded in death by his brother, John “Rickey” Breckenridge Jr.; his sister, Junelle “Poochie” Sanders; and his grandparents, Robert and Pellie Breckenridge, Frankie Mae Abrams-Howard, and Rosie Lee Lewis. 

Thomas leaves to cherish his memory: his son, Jalen Breckenridge of St. Paul, MN; his grandson, Jahari Breckenridge; his parents, John and Junelle Breckenridge of Dermott, AR; siblings Rose Small of Dumas, AR, Anita Breckenridge of Charlottesville, VA, Valarie Jackson-Hardee of Elgin, SC, Janet Breckenridge of Dermott, AR, Anthony Breckenridge of Temple, TX, Charlotte Breckenridge of Dermott, AR, and Grace Love Hill of Bryant, AR; aunts and uncles James (Gwen) Stephenson, Dorothy Degefferd, Cornelius Degefferd, and Matthew (Renee) Abrams; along with 11 nephews, 8 nieces, a host of great-nieces and nephews, extended family, and many dear friends who will forever treasure his memory. Thomas will be remembered for his service, his smile, his wisdom, quirky sense of humor, and the love he poured into his family and community. His legacy of faith, knowledge, and joy will live on in all who were blessed to know him.