Thomas Hetherington Story, Sr., affectionately known as "Tommy," 72, of Sikeston, Missouri, passed away at home on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 9:00 p.m., surrounded by friends and family.

Born on July 1, 1952, in Sikeston, Missouri, to the late George Gassman Story and Eleanor McClure Story. Tommy grew up in Wolf Island and Charleston, Missouri. He attended Castle Heights Military Academy in Lebanon, Tennessee, from third grade through his junior year, later returning to graduate from Charleston High School in 1970. Tommy continued his education at Memphis State University, where he was a proud member of the Alpha Tau Omega (ATO) fraternity. After college, he returned to Charleston to work alongside his father, George, and brother, Pete, at Story Farms. On August 26, 1978, he married Thomas Ann Britt of East Prairie, Missouri, and together they raised two children, Thomas Hetherington Story, Jr., and Thomas-Ann Britt Shelby. Tommy later transitioned into banking, serving as Vice-President of First Security State Bank. In 1994, he partnered with Rick Reed as co-owner of Brink Insurance Agency, where his talent as an insurance salesman led to record-breaking AFLAC sales. He retired from Brink Insurance in 2004. On May 6, 2022, Tommy marrid Marguerite "Beth" Fuchs Story, with whom he shared a joyful life until his passing.htt

A beloved member of the community, Tommy was deeply engaged in numerous organizations. He ws a member of Charleston United Methodist Church, the Sikeston Jaycees, the Shriners, and a 32nd Degree Mason, as well as a former president of Kiwanis. The Lion's Club recognized his contributions by naming him "Man of the Year." An avid golfer, Tommy was a regular at courses and country clubs throughout Southeast Missouri, cherishing every golf trip with friends. Above all, he held a special love for Kentucky Lake, a cherished retreat from childhood to his final days.

Tommy's generosity knew no bounds, especially toward children. For years, he brought joy to kids across the community by donning a Santa suit for Susannah Wesley, the Methodist Church, and the Boy Scouts. He was also known for delighting church children with Jolly Ranchers.

He is survived by his wife, Marguerite "Beth" Fuchs Story; his son, Thomas Hetherington Story, Jr. (Sarah Story); his daughter, Thomas-Ann Britt Shelby (Justin Shelby); four grandchildren, Cannon Monroe Shelby, Wilford Christian Shelby, Edwin Forrester Shelby, and Josef Walter Story; his brother, Ernest Edwin "Pete" Story; his favorite nephew, George Russell "Buck" Story; his great-nephew, George Marshall Story; his great-niece, Cary McClure Story; and many cousins.

Tommy was preceded in death by his parents, George and Eleanor Story; his sister-in-law, Sara Sutherland Story; and his niece, Mary Margaret Story Yarbrough.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at the United Methodist Church 1700 E. Marshall St., Charleston, MO, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 p.m.  The Rev. Scott Moon and the Rev. Jennifer Moxley will officiate. A reading will be offered by his great niece, Cary-McClure Story.

Graveside interment will follow on the Story family plot at the I.O.O.F. Cemetery near Charleston under the direction of McMikle Funeral Home of Charleston.

Pallbearers will be his son in law, Justin Shelby, nephew, Buck Story, great nephew, Marshall Story, and cousins, John Story, Court Story, Shelby Story, Lee Story, Stephen Story, Boothe Dugan and Charles Story.

In lieu of flowers, plants and gift items, the family kindly requests memorials be given to The Charleston Nutrition Center, 205 West Commercial St., Charleston, MO  63834, or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38015

Tommy will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his warmth and generosity.

Online condolences may be shared at www.mcmiklefuneralhome.com.

Due to the possibility of inclement weather, those who are not able to attend in person may view the funeral service from the United Methodist Church of Charleston Facebook or YouTube pages.

http://www.youtube.com/@charlestonumc