A Celebration of Life Service was held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, at First Methodist Church in Grenada for Mr. John Thomas “Tommy” McRee, 63, of Grenada, who died on Sunday, Dec. 7, at his residence. Tommy was laid to rest alongside his parents in the McRee family plot in Woodlawn Cemetery. The Rev. Daniel Herring officiated.
Tommy was born on Dec. 9, 1961, in Grenada, the son of the late William Bryant McRee Sr. and the late Ruth McCluskey McRee. He was a member of Grenada First Methodist Church where he served in a variety of roles over the years. He worked alongside his family in their business, McRee’s Southern Farm Eggs, before earning both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in counseling from Delta State University. He later became a Licensed Professional Counselor and devoted his career to helping many individuals — especially young people — through life’s challenges.
As a young man, Tommy was active in Boy Scouts and earned the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout, along with the “God and Country” award. He trained in Tae Kwon Do for many years, achieving the rank of 4th degree black belt, and eventually opened his own studio where he inspired countless young people to build confidence, strength and self-respect.
Tommy will be remembered as a free spirit — creative, unconventional, endlessly curious and full of laughter. Growing up, he was the life of every gathering, always cracking jokes and keeping people smiling. He had an inventor’s mind and loved tinkering, often transforming motors and odd parts into clever gadgets, each creation a testament to his imagination and resourcefulness.
Tommy lived life with a sense of adventure and wonder. From snow-skiing trips to four-wheeler rides, from elaborate homemade games to the whimsical spaces he created — like the karate studio where he built a giant indoor swing — Tommy saw the world differently and invited others — especially children — to see it with him. As a father, he created unforgettable memories for his daughter through games, stories and playful imagination. When he became a grandfather, that same spark continued, and his grandsons, Jack and Luke, cherished their time with him and were captivated by his stories, humor and the unique beauty of his life.
Tommy had a generous heart and a deep instinct to help anyone who was down and out. He extended kindness freely — never hesitating to lift someone up, offer a meal or give what he had. In his later years, he dedicated himself to caring for his parents with unwavering devotion.
Tommy loved his family. His daughter, Jessica, and his grandsons brought him great joy. He loved dreaming big and imagining adventures. His free-spirited nature, boundless imagination and generous heart touched the lives of many, and will continue to live on in the stories, laughter and love he leaves behind.
Survivors include, his beloved daughter, Jessica McRee Edwards (Shea) of Santa Barbara, Calif.; three brothers, Bill McRee (Vicky) of Grenada, Bobby McRee (Melba) of Hernando and Jody McRee (Tracie) of Hernando and his cherished grandsons, Jack Edwards and Luke Edwards.
Online condolences can be expressed to the family at www.mckibbenandguinn.com
McKibben and Guinn Funeral Service in Grenada was in charge of arrangements.
