Thomas Floyd Poletti, Jr.'s Obituary
Thomas Floyd Poletti, Jr., devoted husband of Beverly Ray Poletti, passed away Sept. 30, 2023
at age 88. Throughout his life Tom took on the mantle of protector of family, friends and
community. As a child, he protected his little brother from bullying. At age 20, when his father
died suddenly, Tom dropped out of college to take over his father’s business, Poletti Heating and
Air Conditioning, thereby protecting his mother and family. As an adult who loved his home-town,
He protected all of us with 11 years as a reserve officer in the Shelby County Sheriff's Office, then
For 34 years as a reserve with the Memphis Police Dept. His favorite assignment was Fugitive Duty
And he delighted in sharing some astonishing stories. But whether helping spare a customer from
Sweltering Memphis heat of returning a fugitive to justice, he treated everyone he encountered
With humor, compassion, and respect. Tom loved to fly his plane and even the most skittish
Passengers felt safe with him as their pilot. He was an alumnus of CBHS Class of 1953 and attended
Christian Brothers College. He leaves behind his loving daughter, Pamela Ray Poletti, his son-in-law
Sam Weakley, and his cherished granddaughter, Mimi Herren. Also, he leaves behind niece Sharon
Frazier (Brian) and nephew David Daniels. Internment will be private at Memorial Park Cemetery.
A celebration of his life will be held at his favorite Italian restaurant at a later date. His broad, strong
Shoulders will be missed.
What’s your fondest memory of Thomas?
What’s a lesson you learned from Thomas?
Share a story where Thomas' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Thomas you’ll never forget.
How did Thomas make you smile?