By By MaryClaire Foster
Major Tommy America passed away Tuesday at his home surrounded by family and friends.
America, 48, previously worked for the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office out of the Atmore substation and had been sick with cancer.
Escambia County Sheriff Grover Smith said America was a great man and will be deeply missed.
America’s strong faith led him to found Saints With a Vision AFM Church of God Inc.
Mable (Bogan) Thomas graduated from Escambia County High School with America and agreed his faith was the most outstanding part of him.
Atmore Assistant Fire Chief Mike Staples also went to school with America at ECHS and worked in close proximity to him early in their careers.
Saturday a compassion blood drive was held at the Atmore sub-station in support of America. While America did not benefit directly from the blood donations, he had received several transfusions through the course of his illness and friends and coworkers wanted to show their support for him.
Christian Memorial Funeral Home in Atmore is handling the funeral arrangements.