Daniel Thomas "Tom" Young

Tom and Beverly began their 60-year music ministry together after meeting at Northwest Junior College in Senatobia, MS, in 1962. After marrying in 1964, Tom finished his education at Mississippi College and later attended Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Texas, where he also served in three churches. Their daughter Tracy was born in 1970, the same year they moved to Brunswick, GA, for their first full-time church position. Tom had a talent for music and a special gift for connecting with young people. He later served at a church in Macon, GA (where their son Brian was born in 1972), and Atlanta, GA, before moving to Batesville, MS, in 1981 as Minister of Music. In 1987, they moved to McComb, MS, for another ministry role before returning to Batesville for bi-vocational work at several churches. In 1998, Tom and Beverly were called to First Baptist Church in Ripley, MS, where they served for 15 years. After celebrating 50 years in ministry, Tom retired from full-time work in 2013. He then served part-time at Faith Baptist Church in Saltillo, MS, a role he enjoyed for 10 more years until stepping down in March 2025 due to health issues. Tom’s gift for working with young people was especially evident during his time at Clairmont Hills Baptist Church in Atlanta. He led large youth groups on Spring Break retreats, with one rule—they had to attend Wednesday night Bible Study. The youth choir grew to over 50 members and took trips to places like Washington, DC, where they sang on the steps of the Capitol, and New Orleans, LA. Youth Fellowship events often drew up to 90 kids, and Tom and Beverly’s home quickly became the go-to spot for Friday night hangouts and Monday Night Football. Many young people made lasting decisions for their faith during this time. Over the years, Tom officiated countless weddings, and even after moving away, he was invited back to perform weddings in Georgia, Florida, and Mississippi—something that brought him great joy. Outside of church life, Tom loved being outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and playing golf—especially with his Ripley golfing buddies. Those times on the course or in the woods were more than hobbies for him; they were a way to relax, laugh, and enjoy the company of friends. Another source of joy for Tom was his family, especially his two grandsons, Carter and Grant. Living nearby in Oxford, he and Beverly rarely missed their games and loved having them over to play baseball in the backyard. Tom and Beverly’s time spent with them was deeply treasured. If there was one thing people would remember about Tom besides his music, it would be his hearty, contagious laugh. It made everyone around him laugh too. On his very first date with Beverly, they were at the movie theater in Senatobia, watching a comedy. Something funny happened on screen, and he let out one of his classic, booming laughs. Right in the middle of the movie, someone recognized it and shouted out, “Hey Tom!” A few seconds later, more people who knew that unmistakable laugh joined in—“Hey Tom!” “Hey Tom!” It turned into a whole thing. Beverly couldn’t believe it, but that was just life with Tom. His laugh didn’t just fill a room; it brought people together. That kind of moment followed him wherever he went. His smile could light up a room, and that’s how he would want to be remembered. Tom was deeply loved and brought love to everyone he met. He lived his life with a strong faith that shone through in his music and in his presence. The world is better because he was in it. Tom is survived by his wife: Beverly Hazel Young; one son: Brian Young (Stephanie) of Oxford, MS; one daughter: Tracy Besinger (Paul) of Walnut, MS; one sister: Barbara Young Bishop of Olive Branch, MS; one sister-in-law: Nellita Young of Hernando, MS; two grandsons: Carter Young of Dallas, TX, Grant Young of Oxford, MS. He is preceded in death by his parents: Herman Sally Young and Margaret Blasengame Young; three brothers: Bob Young, Bill Young, Paul Young. Proverbs 3: 5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and He will make your paths straight”. Pallbearers: Brian Young, Carter Young, Grant Young, Kyle Smith, Ricky Hurt, William Tyre, Andy Braddock, Chris Travis Honorary Pallbearers: Shirley's Breakfast Bunch and His Golfing Buddies Officiating: Dr. Jim Travis, Dr. Rex Yancey, Dr. Phil Ellis Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.

Daniel Thomas "Tom" Young

December 29, 1942 - August 5, 2025