Tommy Clarkson

Thomas "Tommy" Hugo Clarkson, 73, of Poplar Bluff, Mo., passed away peacefully at his home February 28, 2017. Mr. Clarkson was born January 15, 1944 in Poplar Bluff, to the late William Clarkson and Irene (Boeving) Clarkson. Mr. Clarkson attended the Palace of Praise Church. He served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War and was the owner of Ozark Beverage Company for 25 years. Mr. Clarkson loved Alabama football, being a Papa to his grandchildren and going to their sporting events. A charismatic man with a heart of gold, he loved doing all he could to help others. Survivors include his three children, Benjamin Clarkson, Caroline "Worm" Barrett (Greg), Sophia Miller (Ben); two sisters, Judy Baldwin and Carole Bedell; a brother, William "Billy Joe" Clarkson (Karen); as well as six grandchildren, Chaz, Andrew, Audrey, Jedidiah "Pony Boy", Lakin and Kayla and 1 great-grandchild, Caisley. Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. Sunday, March 5, 2017 at Fowler-Sullivan Funeral Home in Poplar Bluff. The funeral service will begin at 1p.m. Monday, March 6, 2017, in the funeral home chapel, with Bishop Kent Miller officiating. He will be laid to rest in the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Bloomfield at 3 p.m. with full military honors.