Tom S. Arledge

Thomas Sidney Arledge, 86, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2026. He was the son of Melbourne Arledge and Louise Ruth Lowe Arledge.

Tom was born in Greenville, SC on October 16, 1939. He graduated from Greenville High School in 1957, and upon graduation he honorably served his country in the US Navy for two years. Tom felt pulled to apply his intelligence and God given gift of problem solving so he returned to the Upstate and enrolled in Clemson University (Clemson College at the time) to study mechanical engineering where he graduated with a BS in 1963. Tom worked his entire career with Monsanto. He was with research and development in their synthetic fibers division for carpeting, including some work in the creation of the original Astroturf. During his career he was based in Pensacola, FL and Greenwood, SC but spent time on the road visiting carpet mills around the country.

Tom was the devoted husband of Judy Bryant Arledge for almost 63 years. Their life together was one of love and laughter thanks to Tom’s gentle spirit and quick wit. Tom and Judy lived most of their married lives in Pensacola, FL where he was active in the First Baptist Church of Pensacola until they moved to Columbia in 2019. He and Judy then joined Eastminster Presbyterian Church.

Tom was blessed to be able to retire early which allowed he and Judy to travel the world together. His favorite place was St. Maarten in the Caribbean where they would return annually for many years.

He was an avid fan of western movies and television shows, with a memory few could challenge about the subject. To spend time with Tom was to know that you were cared for, included, and in all likelihood also enjoying a laugh. This didn’t change even until the day he passed away.

In addition to his parents, Tom is preceded in death by his brother Melbourne “Jerry” Arledge and sister Elizabeth “Betsey” Arledge Leininger.

Tom is survived by his loving and devoted wife Judy Arledge, his daughter Julie Arledge O’Neal (Wane), his grandsons Thomas Connor O’Neal and William Haden O’Neal, in addition to nephews Melbourne “Mel” Arledge Jr.(Katrina), Sean T Arledge (Sarah), and niece Shannon L Arledge Peters (Tim) and their families.

A service celebrating Tom’s life will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday July 25, 2026 at Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 3200 Trenholm Road. A reception and time of visitation will immediately follow in the church parlor. Shives Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Memorial contributions in Tom’s honor may be made to the Eastminster Arts Academy, Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 3200 Trenholm Road, Columbia, SC 29204.