Thomas Ervin "Tommy" Valentine

Thomas Ervin "Tommy" Valentine, 64, of Gainesville, Georgia and Grosse Point Woods, Michigan, lost his long and courageous battle with cancer on July 12, 2014, surrounded by his loving family and friends. He will be remembered as an incredible son, brother, uncle, remarkable athlete, and a trusted and loyal friend.

Tommy was born on Oct. 21, 1949 in Atlanta, and was the son of the late
Dr. Herbert Edward Valentine, Jr., and Bonnelle Lawson Valentine. He is a graduate of Gainesville High School and the University of Georgia.

He is survived by his mother, Bonnelle Lawson Valentine of Gainesville; his devoted and cherished love, Terry Tenaglia of Grosse Point Woods, MI; brother, Dick, and his wife, Cherry of Gainesville,; brother, Dr. Mike Valentine and his wife, Shannon, of Virginia; and six nieces and nephews, Leigh and Neil Papevies, Brad, Catherine, John Thomas (his namesake), and Brooke. He was preceded in death by his father, Dr. Herbert Edward Valentine, Jr., and brother, Herbert Edward "Boots" Valentine III.

Tommy attended Gainesville City Schools. At the age of 11, after being struck by a car while serving as a crossing guard, he was left with multiple injuries including a broken back. After a year of rehabilitation, Tommy returned to become one of the great athletes in Gainesville High School history, earning nine Varsity letters as an All State quarterback, point guard and golfer. After considering a college football career, Tommy decided to play golf at the University of Georgia, eventually winning the SEC Championship and being named 1st Team All American (1970-1971).

Tommy played the PGA tour for 10 years, achieved the top 40 earning status, and developed friendships that would last a lifetime. After leaving the tour, he was named Head Pro at the Lochmoor Club in Grosse Point Woods, MI, from which he retired in 2009.

Known for many distinguished achievements, Tommy's greatest legacy will be his incredible love of family and friends, his passion for teaching golf and all of life's important lessons, and his remarkable gift for bringing our world closer together. He lived life fully, leaving it all on the course, even to the end.

The Valentine family is grateful for the compassionate care of Dr. Frank Lake.

The Memorial Service will be held at St. Paul United Methodist Church, Washington Street, Tuesday, July 15 at 2:00 pm, with a reception to follow at the Church. In lieu of flowers, Tommy would ask that you consider a contribution the BIG RED GOLF FUND, c/o Gainesville High School Athletic Club; the Evans Scholarship Fund for Caddies, c/o Lochmoor Club in Grosse Point Woods, MI; or St. Paul United Methodist Church.

Those wishing to send online condolences may do so at littledavenport.com

Little & Davenport Funeral Home, 355 Dawsonville Hwy, SW, Gainesville, GA. 30501 is in charge of arrangements 770-534-5201