Tom, right, with brother.
He loved one woman, Laverna, and made her his bride as soon as he was honorably discharged from the Navy.
His training in the Navy coupled with a quick mind led Tom to many electrical engineering positions. He continued to develop projects for the US government as well as invent new machines in a variety of fields.
Tom worked on the Apollo project and developed the precision radar used on the Minuteman Missile. At the same time, he was bringing up six boys at home.
His knowledge of electronics and radio and his commitment to serve God brought him to the doors of many mission agencies.
From installing radio equipment in South America to founding organizations such as The Navigators, Tom and his family soon found themselves involved in full-time ministry.
As the children grew up and moved out, Tom and Laverna continued ministry, this time planting churches in Mexico.
Tom was a gentle man who loved spending time with his grandson- his 'little buddy.'
As he and Laverna reached retirement age, they continued to serve faithfully at their church, on mission boards, and with their family.
I will remember Tom as the person my dad always called for advice, as a man who loved and cared for God's creation- especially the fruit trees and rose bushes...
And as a man who continues to inspire so many people to hope in an eternal life with his Lord Jesus Christ.
We laid Tom, my grandfather, to rest at Rosecrans National Cemetery after a long fight with cancer. While I admired my grandfather for being just that- my grandfather- after his passing, I have learned more about his remarkable life and the many, many people he touched.
His battle is over, the pain is gone, and now he lives forever with his beloved Creator.
'One life is past... what's done for Christ will last.'
Thomas T. Sorrels, May 25, 1925- December 29, 2010
What an amazing testimony! Thank you for sharing, Anna. Your grandfather must have been great to know. Sounds like going into the mission field is in your blood.
ReplyDelete"Leaving a legacy" is something T and I often speak of. Your grandfather exhibited this greatly! I'm sure you're absolutely proud of who he was and continues to be. Thanks for sharing!
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