Thomas C. Outland

Thomas Carver Outland was born in Boligee, Alabama to the late Rosie J. and Ellis Outland. Thomas was one of ten children who grew up in rural Alabama. When Thomas was eight years old his mother wanted to further her education and have a better education for her children and thus made the move to the big city of Birmingham. Thomas attended the schools in Birmingham and graduated in 1959 from Ullman High School. Thomas then enrolled in Alabama A & M where he learned the skills of an expert tailor. While in elementary school he met Dianne Wright, who became the love of his life. Thomas and Dianne were sweethearts from elementary school and were married on June 7, 1964. To this union two children were born, Geraldine Denise and Thomas Ellis. Thomas and Dianne moved to Chester in 1964 to be with other family members. Upon settling in Chester, Thomas studied at Bell & Howell where he became an electronic craftsman. His school accomplishment was making his own color TV and putting it on the wall of their home. He was known throughout Chester for installing and monitoring alarm systems. Thomas could fix anything. His co-workers, new friends and family began calling him only by his last name and it stuck, “Outland”. He retired in 2003 from Scott Paper/Kimberly Clark after 35 years of service never once taking a sick day. “Outland” became a member of Calvary Baptist Church joining in 2000 under the pastorate of Rev. Bayard Taylor. “Outland “ became a viable part of the church and its community and soon immersed himself into the upkeep and financial business of the church. “Outland” served on the Trustee Board for over 20 years and was the Financial Secretary of the church until his health began to fail. Calvary was his second love. “Outland” also became an integral part of the Masonic community serving in various capacities during his tenure with the different houses of the Craft. “Outland ‘s” Masonic Affiliations: Past Worshipful Master of Eastern Light Lodge No. 46 Worshipful Grand Recorder for the MWPHGL for 10 years Omega Chapter No. 12 – Holy Royal Arch Masons Leon H. Johnson Council No. 8 - Royal & Select Masters Grand Illustrious Recorder for the Grand Council of Royal & Select Masters Charles E. Gordon Consistory No 65, A.A.S.R. Honorary Past Right Grand Thrice Illustrious Master Honorary Past Potentate of Minaret Temple No. 174 “Outland’s” highest achievement was receiving the 33rd degree on May 26, 2003. Even though “Outland” served in all of the fraternal organizations he never lost sight of his first duty which was God and his family. He loved his wife and children and strived to make sure that Denise and Tommy were educated and successful in their lives. In 2016 ”Outland” and Dianne celebrated 50 years of marriage, renewing their vows at a grand gala affair. “Outland” was a god-fearing man who loved to sing his favorite hymn – Blessed Assurance, because this was his story, and this was his song. His favorite bible verse was the 23rd Psalm , always reminding himself and his family that “The Lord is your Shepard and you shall not want”. “Outland” was predeceased by his parents Rosie and Ellis Outland and siblings, Martha, Charlotte, Pearl, John, George and Ellis. Thomas Outland leaves to mourn his loving wife, Dianne, his daughter Denise Outland Stone and her loving husband Jason and son, Thomas. Grandchildren, Rodney Wilson, Jr. and Nitsaniyah Fitch Outland. Great Grand-daughter Reign Denise Wilson. Brothers, Ben and Wiley and Sister Janie. Outland’s Birmingham family include his sisters and brothers-in law, James, Gerald, Harold, Roger, Barbara Jean and Loretta. A special Brother-in-Law, Alfred French, nieces, nephews and friends.

Thomas C. Outland

December 28, 1943 - June 12, 2022