Thomas Auther

Millett

Thomas Auther Millett, a veteran of the Vietnam War and long time resident of Sweetwater, Texas passed away on June 20, 2023 at the Lubbock University Medical Center surrounded by family.

Tommy, as he was known to many in the area, was born November 4, 1949 to Wendell and Vera Millett. He attended Sweetwater High School before being drafted into the U.S. Army in 1969. As a SP4, 101st Airborne 2/502nd INF for the Army, Tommy saw action in Vietnam, and he had many amazing stories of his time there. He sent pictures and wrote incredible letters home to his wife, Mary Millett, detailing the antics of his fellow soldiers, the scenery in the area, and a very edited description of the action he encountered. The U.S. Army recognized Tommy for his honorable service with a Purple Heart, Vietnam Service Medal W/3 Bronze Service Stars, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Unit Citation Badge, Valorus Unit Award, and the Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Honor Medal First Class Unit Citation Badge. He didn't speak often about his time spent in the war or U.S. Army, but he did speak proudly of Captain Sam Asher whom sacrificed his own life to save his unit. Tommy proudly marched in parades with other veterans, and was a spokesperson at the local schools where he would showcase his Vietnam memorabilia and share his experiences. Tommy was an active and proud member of the VFW and served multiple times as Post Commander 2479.

Before his time spent in war, Tommy met Mary Germany in July of 1969. They fell deeply in love and were married December 22, 1969. After the Vietnam War, together, they built a beautiful family. Tommy worked at USG for 38 years. After their two daughters and son were grown, they enjoyed traveling to the river with their children and grandchildren making memories.

Tommy was an avid golfer and member of the Sweetwater Country Club, a member of the Bethel Assembly, and was active in his community. He loved to go dancing, play pool, and he enjoyed scenic drives on the town.

Tommy was preceded in death by his wife, Mary, his parents Wendell and Vera Millett, his siblings Buford Millett and Wanda Nanyes, as well as his grandson John Blount.

He is survived by his daughters Tammy Blount and husband William of Cisco, Tonya Osteen of Sweetwater, and his son Daniel Millett and wife Kendall of Sweetwater, his brother Rylan Millett of Florida, and sister Wendy Milligan of Denton, as well as fifteen grandchildren and twenty-two great grandchildren.

His family has organized a memorial service to honor Tommy's life and military service. Funeral services will be held 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, June 27, 2023 at Bethel Assembly with his brother Rylan Millett officiating. Military graveside services will follow at 2:00 P.M. at the Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Abilene, Texas with the U.S. Army Honor Guard performing honors. Arrangements are under the direction of McCoy Funeral Home. A visitation will be held 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. on Monday, June 26, 2023 at the funeral home.

Pallbearers will be Daniel Millett, Breydon Millett, Stephen Turney, Patrick Villa, Michael Nelson and Luke Wilson.

Honorary pallbearers will be Kenneth Kendrick, William Blount, Jerry Pugh, Bobby Schroedter, Doyle Clemmer, Freddy Hubbard, Garry Hubbard, Johnny Mac Cunnings, Brian Gilmore and Dennis Campbell.