Thomas “Tom” Jacob Westbrook Jr., a local businessman, passed away at his home on Jan. 4, 2019, after several months of declining health.

Tom was born Jan. 2, 1931, in Mansfield, Georgia to Thomas Jacob Westbrook, Sr. and Bertie Jean Campbell. He grew up on the Campbell family farm in Mansfield, Georgia. He was a graduate of Lanier High School and later attended the University of Georgia, where he earned a degree in agriculture. While at the university he was a member of the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity and a Distinguished Military Graduate. Upon graduation, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the United States Army.

Westbrook proudly served in the United States Army as an armor officer. He was stationed at Fort Hood, West Germany and Fort Knox. While serving in West Germany, he inadvertently was captured and became a POW when his helicopter crashed inside East Germany. He was held by the Russians for 42 days before being released to the International Red Cross. He was a faithful volunteer with the Red Cross for many years after his release.

After his military service, Westbrook joined his uncle Joe (Westbrook) in business at Westbrook Motors, in East Point as a car salesman. In 1967, he moved his family to LaGrange and purchased Huie Motor Company, renaming it LaGrange Chrysler Motors. Later the business became Westbrook Service and Tire Company.

Westbrook was a longtime member of the First Presbyterian Church of LaGrange, serving as a deacon and an elder. He was a member of the LaGrange Lions Club for over 50 years where he served in several officer positions, including president. He enjoyed farming and traveling the world including all 50 states with his beloved wife. He loved sharing his adventures with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife of 65 years, Mary Ellen Lane Westbrook, twin daughters, Emily Jordan (Collier), Ellen Avery (Darrald, deceased), son, Joe (Janice); Grandchildren, Adam Westbrook (Kandy), Timothy Westbrook (Shirley), Tommy Avery (Carolyn), Katie Trent (Blake), Catherine Sink (Dane), Elizabeth Wilkinson (Thomas); and five great-grandchildren.

The family would like to extend thanks to Georgia Living at Home and Affinis Hospice for their special caregiving.

Visitation will be held at Striffler-Hamby Funeral Home on Monday, Jan. 7, 2019, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.  A memorial service will be held Tuesday, Jan. 8 at 11 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church of LaGrange.  A private graveside service will follow the memorial service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Westbrook Memorial Fund at First Presbyterian Church, 120 Broad Street, LaGrange, Georgia 30240.

Those wishing to share a condolence or remembrance with the family may do so by visiting Shlagrange.com

Arrangements are by Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 1010 Mooty Bridge Road, LaGrange, GA 30240 (706) 884-8636