The memorial service for Lefty Tom were held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at Olson Funeral Chapel in Britton. Burial will take place in the spring at the Britton Cemetery.

Phillip “Lefty” Tom was born September 27, 1936, in rural Pierpont, SD to John and Alma (Gunderson) Tom. Growing up as one of ten children, Lefty never had to go far to find a playmate or partner in crime. Never straying far from where he made those wonderful childhood memories, Lefty attended school in Britton, SD, graduated from Britton High School, and made Britton his home for all his years.

After high school, Lefty spent two summers trying out for the Kansas City Athletics (now Royals) before joining and serving in the Navy. After the Navy, he returning to Britton where he worked at Britton Dairy and was one Britton’s favorite milkmen. He later worked for and eventually retired from Horton’s. After retirement Lefty worked part time at the Britton Country Club.

Lefty enjoyed all things Britton: playing pool and baseball, bowling, golfing, hunting, fishing, and Sunday drives - especially those made with his long time significant other Betty North. In his later years as he slowed, he enjoyed more of those drives and could be seen out and about town almost daily - always being watched out for and taken care of by the Britton community.

Lefty belonged to both the Marshall Post #3507 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Britton Post #80 of the American Legion. He received many recognitions from the South Dakota Sportsman’s Association and he pitched for the Aberdeen Preds. He was ever proud of his hole in one and was known to have an extra golf ball (or 20) lying around. When not out and about, Lefty could be found in his comfy chair watching his beloved Chicago Bears or any old western movie. Most of all, Lefty absolutely loved visiting (“B.S.ing”) and reminiscing on all the good times with anyone and everyone and he was always sure to offer some bubble gum in exchange.

Lefty is survived by his children and their families: Robin Brandt of Milwaukee, WI, Jessica Tom of Sioux Falls, SD, and Aaron Tom of Koloa, HI; as well as Betty’s children and their families: Raymond Stransky Jr. of Sioux Falls, SD, Louis Stransky of Mitchell, SD, Fred Stransky of Loomis, SD, and Burt Stransky of Mitchell, SD; his siblings: Roger “Willy” Tom of Britton, SD and Judy “Cookie” Ewings of Britton, SD; as well numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and extended family members.

Preceding him in death were his parents, John and Alma Tom; his significant other, Betty North; brothers, Jerry Tom, Carmen Tom, Reuben Tom, Alex Tom, and Ivan Tom and sisters, Marion Mydland and Darlene Selle.

Condolences may be directed to the family in care of Judy Ewings – PO Box 394 – Britton, SD 57430.