Thomas Franklin "Tommy" Lance

Thomas Franklin “Tommy” Lance entered his heavenly home on December 16, 2023 at the age of 86.  Graveside services will be 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 19, 2023 in the Mexia Cemetery with Ms. Karen Hulsey and Pastor Stephen Dubois officiating.  Pallbearers will be Tommy Roberson, Bubba Roberson, Michael Carter, Blake Davis, Tucker Davis, Wayne Hall, Stacy Wright, and Jody Wright.

Tommy was born August 2, 1937 in Mexia, Texas to Frank Hoyet and Willie Forrest (Rutherford) Lance.  He loved the Lord and served him throughout his life.  In addition to serving as a Pastor of several churches in the Mexia area he, also, served as an Evangelist traveling all over the country preaching the word.  Later, Tommy returned to Mexia and worked as a Chaplain, as well as traveling with Sunshine Singers, at the Mexia State School prior to retirement.  He was of Pentecostal faith.

Tommy was an exceptional, and well-known, pianist who never had a lesson in his life.  His ability to play the piano consisted of just being able to “hear” a song.  He made several records over the years and even had the opportunity to play with Johnny Cash at one time. 

Tommy enjoyed life to the fullest.  He had an outgoing personality, loved being with people (no matter who they were), and was known for taking great pleasure in teasing and joking with others.  Among all of his pleasures in life, none were more important than spending time with his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Willie Lance; sister and brother-in-law, Omah Faye and Sam Carter; and nieces, Sammie Turner and Mary Adams.

Tommy is survived by his niece, Christine Owsley and husband John; nephew Fred Carter and wife, Debbie; and a number of great nieces and great nephews.