Thomas Edward Neely, age 67, of Strunk, Kentucky, passed away on March 13th, 2025. He was born on February 26th, 1958, to the late Robert Allen Neely and Ruby Doris (Strunk) Neely in Cincinnati, Ohio. He became a resident of Kentucky in 1972 and graduated from Pine Knot High School in 1977. Tom furthered his education at Somerset Vocational School, earning Certification as an Offset Pressman.

A member of the 1st Otter Creek Baptist Church in Strunk, KY, Tom's faith and love for his community were central to his life. He was known for his entrepreneurial spirit, often finding unique ways to support his family and help others. Tom had a passion for making others smile and could always be found sharing fruit baskets, nuts, and kindness during the holiday seasons.

Over the years, Tom worked in various capacities, including as a photographer for the Scott County News and Independent Herald in Oneida, TN. He was a familiar face at the Tombstone Junction, Tshirt Shop and ran a store in Winfield, TN, where he sold bait for fishermen. He also ran a ceramic shop and traveled to Walmart stores in five different states, selling custom license plates. Tom was also a fixture at the Paradise Flea Market, where he sold chocolates and license plates, and was loved by many for his kind-hearted nature. He worked at Scott County Hospital and Ridgeview Psychiatric Hospital as a security guard and orderly. In his final years, Tom became affectionately known as the "Cotton Candy Man" at the 914 Lake Cumberland Flea Market, where he loved to bring joy to children and friends alike, especially during his role as Santa Claus.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Sandi (Branscum) Neely, whom he married on October 23, 1983. He is also survived by his children, Thomas E. Neely and Danielle Neely, both of Strunk; his non-blood-related son, Robi Terry; his brother, Robert A. Neely II of Loveland, Ohio; his sister, Pamela Neely of Pine Knot, KY; his brother-in-law, Thomas Branscum of Buffalo, New York; and his non-blood brother, Nick Cox (Lisa) of Georgia. He leaves behind his beloved nephews, Matthew Laxton (Brandy) of Indiana and Ethan Laxton (Roxie) of Whitley City; a special cousin, Hap Strunk; and lifetime friend, Jim McCarroll. Additionally, Tom is survived by special friends Mike Rollins (Sherry) of Pine Knot, Bob Gomes of Somerset, Kevin Williams of Nancy, Nick Glasgow and his son Bryce, and Willie and Sharon Godsey. He will also be missed by his many friends, especially those he met throughout his years at the flea markets, and his cherished furbabies, with his special chihuahua, Molly, holding a special place in his heart.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Robert A. Neely Sr. and Ruby Doris (Strunk) Neely, his mother-in-law, Judy Branscum (King), his father-in-law, Thomas Lenville Branscum, and numerous grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was also preceded by special friends Jack Wilson and Louis Jones.

Tom's kind and giving spirit, his love for his family, and his ability to bring joy to everyone around him will never be forgotten. His legacy of generosity, community service, and unwavering love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Hickman-Strunk Funeral Home was honored to serve the family of Tom Neely.