Thomas Alison Fanjoy ’54

Tom died Sept. 21, 2020. He fought a long, difficult battle with dementia, but he did it true to his character: with dignity and grace and that never-give-up attitude. When asked how he felt, his stock reply was, “I’m fine, just not jumping any four-foot fences.”

He was a four-letter man at the McCallie School in Chattanooga, Tenn. At Princeton he played football and joined Cottage Club, where he served as vice president. Tom married Mary Frances Allen Dec. 29, 1953. After graduation Tom accepted a commission as a first lieutenant in the Marines.

Following his service, Tom and Francie lived in Statesville, N.C. After several years as president of Bylo Furniture, Tom joined his father as a partner in Fanjoy and Co. and forged a successful career as a manufacturer’s representative in the furniture industry.

Tom’s life was distinguished by service to his community. He served as mayor of Statesville from 1973 to 1979, and he was awarded Statesville’s Outstanding Citizen award in 1976. He also served on the boards of numerous community organizations.

A lifelong member of Trinity Episcopal Church, Tom served the church in many capacities, including a number of terms as senior warden.

Tom was predeceased by his wife of 61 years, Mary Francis, in 2015. He is survived by their children, Laura, William, and Mary; nine grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.