Tommy Lee Harmon

“The doors of the shop were always up”. This is what our brother said about our dad. And he was right, dad was always there and his family and friends were always welcome to stop by. (Except during nap time)

That sentiment, however, explains more than just his hard work ethic and friendly demeanor. It’s the definition of who he was. He was the man who built the life he wanted with his own rules; a man not afraid to sacrifice for those whom he loved and armed with the courage and conviction to teach them integrity, honesty, and respect. He was an example of living life on his own terms no matter the obstacles in his way and always found the good in his failures and the strength to continue to success. He was a man of laughter who made those around him want to share in his humor and be involved in his activities.

Tommy Lee Harmon’s life journey began on January 28, 1942. He was born the son of William Harmon II and Valley Harmon in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He would travel many paths in this life journey beginning with his first major life change at 17 years of age when he joined the United States Marine Corp. He served his country four years and was honorably discharged from active service.

Tommy then attended OSU Technical College and received a degree in the paint and body trade. Following graduation, he worked in the profession for several years in Tulsa before he and first wife Sammie opened Harmon’s Body Shop between Mannford and Cleveland in 1972. He worked in the business until his retirement. This was his chosen career and passion. It was his calling and he was passionate about his trade and the opportunity to teach others what he had learned. He touched so many lives through his dedication to his trade and relished in his desire to teach his skills to others. His impact on those who were fortunate enough to learn from him is immeasurable. His commitment to his customers and to quality craftsmanship earned him a stellar reputation in which he took great pride.

Tommy’s wit, humor and honesty also endeared him to those who knew him. He possessed an energy and vitality that made him unique and unforgettable. The world is a lesser place for having lost his spirit.

Tommy was a husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He loved children and raised four with Sammie Harmon.

Tommy loved dancing, fishing and boating and enjoyed these hobbies with zeal and excitement. He was an excellent dancer and earned a reputation for his finesse and talent on the dance floor. He spent many happy hour with his second wife Barbara in these activities.

He passed from this life peacefully in the early morning hours of December 23, 2020 at his home in Cleveland. He was surrounded by his wife Barbara of 20 years and other loved ones. And though his journey has come to an end, he will be forever remembered by those who will share his legacy to each new generation. He touched the lives of so many with his actions and words. And though Heaven is a brighter place with his presence, the world has lost a bit of its warmth and glow. You were loved more than you knew on earth and are loved more than you thought possible now that you are in Jesus’ embrace.

Tommy is survived by his wife Barbara Harmon of the home, his brothers William Harmon III of Olathe, Colorado and wife Judy, Jon Philip Harmon and wife Carol of Palm Springs, California, his children, Jene Harmon of Cleveland, Jan Watkins and son-in-law Harley Watkins of Coweta, Clinton Harmon of Cleveland and Jamie Harmon and daughter-in-law Sheila Harmon of Cleveland, step daughters Teresa Ramsey and husband Kevin of Broken Arrow, Dusty Graham of Bixby, 14 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren and five cats which he adored. He is preceded in death by his father William Harmon, mother Valley Root and stepson Michael Keef. 

Service is Monday at Smith Funeral Home in Sapulpa at 2 pm with Pastor David Logsdon officiating. The viewing is Sunday from 3-5 pm.