Melvin Thomas East

Melvin Thomas East, better known to his friends and family as Tommy passed away on Sunday, March 7, 2010 at his home in Jennings, Oklahoma at the age 54 years. Tommy was born October 2, 1955 in Helena, Arkansas. Tommy was the son of Barham and Rada (Durkee) East. As a young boy Tommy attended grade school in Terlton and later transferred to the Cleveland schools. After completion of his education Tommy began working at Webco and shortly there after; started working in the construction business painting and installing siding on homes. Tommy was united in marriage to Sharyl Lynn (Poulter) on December 1, 1978 at the Terlton Baptist Church. Following their marriage the couple has continued to reside in the Terlton and Jennings area. Tommy enjoyed being outside. You could often find him sitting on the bank fishing near his favorite spot at Frog Rock Road. He also enjoyed hunting and working in his garden. Survivors are his wife Sharyl of the home, two children Tanya East of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Cory East of the home; mother Rada Fabela of Terlton, Oklahoma; one brother Michael East of Terlton, Oklahoma; one sister Julie Sheffer of Knoxville, Tennessee; two grandchildren Allyson and Elizabeth as well as a host of other relatives and friends. Tommy was preceded in death by his father Barham Moody East and one brother Kenneth Floyd East. Chapel Services will be held Thursday evening at 6:00 pm, March 11, 2010 at the Chapman-Black Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Casey Muse and Pastor Harrison Gibson officiating. Private burial will be held in the Jennings Cemetery under the direction of Chapman-Black Funeral Home.