Tommy Lee Exley, Sr. died January 16, 2021 surrounded by his family. He was born in Springfield, Georgia on October 22, 1937 to the late George Carlisle Exley, Sr. and Addie Shearouse Exley. He married his high school sweetheart Bebe Ann Hatcher on April 16, 1961.

Tommy graduated from Carlisle Military School, Armstrong Junior College, and the University of Georgia with a business degree. He was Springfield postmaster for 11 years before going into his own business, Goshen Tie & Chip. He was an avid outdoorsman and Georgia Bulldogs fan.  Tommy loved traveling and took many wonderful trips near and far with family and friends.

Tommy was very active in his community serving on the Effingham Industrial Development board, and the Effingham Hospital Board for a number of years. He was a member of the Lions Club, American Legion, Sunrise Rotary Club, and past president of the Springfield Jaycees. He served in the 117 ^th Air National Guard. He was a lifelong member of the Springfield Baptist Church where he served as clerk, Sunday school teacher and was chairman of the board of Trustees.

He is survived by his wife, Bebe, of 59 years, his daughter Cindy Exley Howze (Gregg), son Tom Exley, Jr. (Mary), three grandchildren Ansley, Garrett, and Hayden Howze, sisters Ruth McCormick and Betty Kicklighter (Mickey), brother-in-law, Lee Hatcher (Linda) and many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. He was predeceased by his brothers George Carlisle Exley, Jr., Billy Exley and sister Helen Dasher.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date when it is safe to gather. Sympathy messages to the family can be sent to P.O. Box 416 Springfield, Georgia 31329. In lieu of flowers, donations can be given in memory to the American Heart Association (P.O. Box 1410 Bluffton, SC 29910), Hospice Savannah, P.O. Box 13190, Savannah, GA 31416, or a charity of your choice.

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Home, Effingham Chapel. 754-6421