Thomas Johnston Sibley passed away on January 6, 2017 at Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital. He is survived by his daughters, Sarah Sibley Cox (Jeffery) of Austin, Texas, Marilouise Sibley Avery (Barron) of Washington, DC, and two grandsons, Foster Avery and Moore Avery. He is also survived by his sister Penny Barrett of Sequim, Washington. He is preceded in death by his parents Mary Ruth Johnston and Vance Neulon Sibley.
Tom was born in Casper, Wyoming on June 11, 1938. He was a graduate of the University of Oklahoma where he received his undergraduate degree in geology and was a member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity. He received his law degree from Louisiana State University, and during his time at LSU, he worked for the Louisiana Mineral Board.
Tom practiced law in Beaumont for over fifty years. He was licensed to practice in both state and federal court in Texas and Louisiana, and in the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, where he successfully argued several cases. He was board certified in Texas in residential, commercial and farm and ranch real estate. He was active in many professional and civic organizations throughout the years. He served on the board of the Beaumont Country Club as secretary for over 50 years. He also served as president the BPM Club and the American College of Mortgage Attorneys.
Tom loved the beach. He and his family spent over twenty-five happy years at “Sibley Seabreeze” on Bolivar. He enjoyed many years of camp closings and summer vacations with his family at the Broadmoor and at Sea Island. He loved all of his dogs over the years dearly, and was frequently spotted walking them with his gin and tonic every night in the neighborhood.
Tom was an avid reader and read thousands of books in his lifetime. He also loved piddling around the house and yard that he lived at and called home on Harrison Avenue for 45 years. He was always known for having one of the best yards in Beaumont in its golden days.
His greatest accomplishments in life were his two daughters, Sarah and Marilouise, whom he loved dearly. Of late, his pride and joy, were his grandsons, Foster and Moore. Tom adored all of them and looked forward to their visits, calls and photos. He was happiest when he was with them. Tom will be remembered as a loving son, father and grandfather.
A private family committal was held at Broussard's Crematorium, Beaumont, under the direction of Broussard's, 2000 McFaddin Avenue, Beaumont. A memorial service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Anne Catholic Church, P.O. Box 3429, Beaumont Texas 77704 or to Humane Society of Southeast Texas, P.O. Box 1629, Beaumont Texas 77704.
