Tommie Elam

Tommie Sue (Garrett) Elam passed away at her residence surrounded by her family on July 15, 2018 at the age of 73. She was born on February 23, 1945 to Tom and Sue Garrett in Sinton, Texas. Tommie Sue graduated from Calallen High School as Salutatorian in 1963. She graduated from Texas A & I University in 1967 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education. She married Roger Elam on June 2, 1967 in Corpus Christi. While Roger was in the military, she taught school in Maine and continued teaching in the Robstown ISD after they returned to the area and bought their current home in Calallen. After the birth of her children, Tommie dedicated her time to raising them and was involved in their activities. She enjoyed sewing for herself and her family. She helped Roger in gardening and preserving the vegetables that they grew. She later spent several years substitute teaching in Calallen ISD. The family always looked forward to summer vacation trips and many holidays spent together at their cabin in Leakey, Texas. Later in life, one of her greatest joys was spending time with her four grandchildren. Despite physical ailments, she always made sure to attend the grandkids sporting events and activities. Tommie Sue was a faithful member of Riverside church of Christ. She continued to attend Ladies Bible Class and multiple worship services every week. Her attendance was an encouragement to the members of the congregation. She is survived by Roger Elam, her husband of 51 years; their daughter, Jennifer, and her husband Doyle Brooks; their son, Jeff, and his wife Jessy; and grandchildren Steven and Matthew Brooks, Hailey and Logan Elam. She was preceded in death by her parents, Tom and Sue Garrett and a sister, Patricia Klapka. The family would like to thank her private caregivers that helped care for her in the final years, allowing her to stay at home with her family. Because of this loving care, she was able to enjoy outings and time with her family. A visitation will be held from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Wednesday, July 18 at Sawyer George Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held at 10:00 am on Thursday, July 19 at Sawyer George. Burial will be immediately following at Memorial Park Cemetery. Donations can be made to Hensel Christian Youth Camp in her memory. Please make donations payable to Riverside church of Christ (4701 Cornett Dr, Corpus Christi, TX, 78410) with a notation indicating Hensel Youth Camp.