Charles Thomas Lapradd
October 9, 2023
Charles Thomas LaPradd
1/22/52 - 10/9/23
Charles Thomas LaPradd was placed in the arms of his mother on January 22, 1952, in Gainesville, FL and went into the arms of Jesus on October 9, 2023. While those who cherish him here on earth mourn his unthinkable loss, we know he is ecstatic to be in his forever home. He has joined his father (Charles LaPradd), stepfather (Jack Hurse), nephew (John Brill), grandparents and friends who preceded him.
As a child, Tommy, moved to Tallahassee with his family where he attended The University School until moving to Palatka in the eigth grade. As he progressed through high school and junior college there, he made many lifelong friends. Returning to Tallahassee he attended and graduated from Florida State University with a degree in Business.
Throughout his life, Tommy, had various occupations, including the establishment of two restaurants that are still successful today. In his later years he drove to Waldo daily to manage the cattle on what previously was his father's farm. Selling the farm in 2023 gave him the time to ponder and plan the next season of his life with his beloved wife, Meredith. God had a better plan to suddenly take him home, leaving those who love him with a hole the size of the Grand Canyon. Among those left behind are his daughter Leanne whose birth was the high point of his life and another daughter Scottie who joined him with Meredith making them a family of four. Grandchildren Grace, Noah, Claire and Reese added much fun and love to "Pup's" life.
"Tommy didn't really follow anyone else's script. He made it up as he went along," commented a pastor friend. The Lord got hold of him as he was forging his own path and soon Tommy's bold faith in Jesus became a hallmark of his unique intense personality. He also loved to tease playfully and his joking was tempered by the Holy Spirit as he grew in his faith walk. Tommy had a quick and cynical wit about life's predicaments and people. He always made his family laugh and his presence filled every room. Jesus and family came first, followed by his loyalty and love for old and new friends. He was interested in others, always asking them about themselves. Tommy and Meredith prayed every morning for the people in their lives, leaving an eternal legacy.
Tommy is survived by his wife of 32 years Meredith; mother Nita Nell Hurse; sister Lauren (Douglas) Kuhn; daughters Leanne (Drew) Harvey and Scottie (Dave) Daquila; grandchildren Grace, Noah, Claire and Reese; as well as many family and friends.
There will be a Memorial Service. Please contact the family for details.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Andrew’s Church, Gainesville, FL.
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Sending my heartfelt condolences to the family.May the love of family and friends continue to be a source of support for you all. He was truly loved by many🌹
Oh Meredith, I have no words and can only imagine how you must feel at this time. I know as a Christian you know where he is but that doesn’t make the pain of it all go away. I will just say you are constantly in my prayers and uplifting you and your family. Love you so very much.
It is so hard to grasp the fact that my best friend of 67 years is not hear with us any longer. What a grand journey you had with Meredith and the children, the grand children, your mother, and sister. While our hearts ache from not having you with us, we rejoice that you have gone to your real home and are with the Lord. We will see you again my friend, and until then we will remember the times of our journey together, your wit and laughter, and we will remember what you always would say, " Y'all go on and do what you need to do, I'll be fine." Thank you Lord for having allowed Tommy to be with us these many years and to be such a positive influence in our lives.
Lauren, so very sorry to hear about Tommy. You don’t mourn as the world does. Tommy is with his Lord Jesus! What a great comfort! Lifting you, your sweet mom and family up in prayer! Fran
So sorry to hear of my friend Tommy passing. Praying for his family. He will be deeply missed .Rest in peace my friend