Thomas Earl Aldridge

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Thomas Earl Aldridge passed away Monday, February 22, 2016, in Gainesville, Georgia, at the age of 76.

Tom was born on September 27, 1939, in Charlotte, North Carolina, to Thomas Aquila Aldridge, and Ruth Critcher Aldridge. 

The family moved to Hastings-On-Hudson, NY and Tom attended Hastings High School where he played football and became an Eagle Scout. Tom graduated from Duke University in 1961 where he played lacrosse and was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity.  Upon graduating from Duke University, Tom entered the United States Navy and became a Naval Intelligence Officer in London, England, assigned to NATO. After Tom's honorable discharge, he worked for Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith for 25 years in institutional bond sales, first in Miami, Florida, then later in Atlanta, Georgia.

Tom was an accomplished sailor, yachtsman, and deep-sea fisherman.  He was a professional photographer and world traveler, and his musical tastes ranged from Merle to Mozart.  He loved his family and friends, who all agree that to say Tom was one-of-a-kind is such an understatement.  His absence here leaves a huge hole in many hearts and lives, and he will be missed for a long, long time. He has been described as witty, honest, ethical, highly intelligent, thoughtful, generous, and always, always entertaining.

He is survived by his daughter Kristine Aldridge Alexander and her husband John Alexander, as well as grandchildren, Thomas, Jack, Matthew and Abby Alexander, all of Gainesville, Ga.  Also surviving is his brother Richard Preston Aldridge and wife Gwen Aldridge, of Flowery Branch, Ga.

A celebration of Tom's life will take place at 4:30pm Thursday, February 25th in the chapel at First United Methodist Church, 2780 Thompson Bridge Road, in Gainesville.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to your favorite charity in honor of Mr. Aldridge.

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

Little & Davenport Funeral Home and Crematory, 355 Dawsonville Hwy, Gainesville, GA 30501 is in charge of arrangements.