Celebrating the life of
Thomas Blake Booth
January 19, 1941 - December 31, 2011
THOMAS BLAKE BOOTH, devoted and loving father and grandfather and brother, age 70, died on Saturday, December 31st at his home in Savannah, Georgia with his children and grand children.
He was born January 19th, 1941 in Norfolk, Virginia and spent much of his life in Hilton Head, South Carolina and Savannah, Georgia.
Tom graduated high school from Christ Church School, Tappahannock, VA. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Southern California where he was the captain of the crew team and received an Award of Merit Achievement in crew.
Tom graduated from Officer Candidate School OCS Newport, RI in 1962 and was sworn in as Ensign, USNR, by his father, then a Rear Admiral in the U.S. Navy. Tom served for three years on the ocean-going minesweeper, USS Notable as Chief Engineer where he was instrumental in finding one or more nuclear weapons in the western Med waters. Tom left the USN as full Lieutenant. He served with the CIA in junior officer training program.
Following Tom's Naval career, he worked for General Electric for several years and then went on to work for the Sea Pines Company in Hilton Head, SC. He later purchased Resort Designs, where he expanded the company from its single location in Hilton Head Island to a successful chain of nine lowland locations.
Following the sale of Resort Designs, Tom moved to Savannah in 1983 where he pioneered the development of the Savannah City Market. His goal was to develop a major downtown festival marketplace in the Historic District that helped to revitalize the downtown area and continues to contribute to the vitality of the Historic District today.
Tom also founded the website optimization company, Year 2001. He also served as Chief Operating Officer of Cora Bett Thomas Realty.
Tom's passions included sailing, walking on the beach and caring for his dogs. While in Hilton Head, Tom and his family enjoyed many days and nights aboard the Anne T Scott, which Tom lovingly named for his three children.
Tom is survived by his sister, Peggy Scott Booth Ramsey William E. Ramsey, VADM USN Ret, his brother, Peter Blake Booth, RADM USN Ret Carolyn Rhodes Booth, his children Charles Thomas Booth III Heather Booth, Ashley Anne Booth Krewatch Samuel Justin Krewatch, and Carrie Scott Booth McGranahan Colin Andrew McGranahan, and former wife and dear friend Cora Bett Thomas. Tom is also survived by his former wife, Suzanne Deane Booth and seven grandchildren: Isabelle August and Sydney Lauren Booth, Elizabeth Page, Samuel Joseph and Priscilla Scott Krewatch, and Abigail Scott and Kathryn Saylor McGranahan. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews Christopher Ramsey, Timothy Ramsey, Laura Booth Stanton and Renee Booth Whitley. He is survived by his golden retriever, Tybee.
Tom is predeceased by his mother and father, Vice Admiral Charles Thomas Booth II, VADM USN Ret and Peggy Maltman Booth and nephew William Blake Ramsey. He is predeceased by his black labrador, Prince.
A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 3, 2011 at St. Paul's Episcopal Church.
Remembrances may be made in Tom's memory to St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 1802 Abercorn St., Savannah, GA 31401 or a charity of choice.
I remember the manifold kindnesses he showed me when I was at Christchurch School. Moreover, I knew him in the Navy when I was an Ensign and he was of the elevated status of Lieutenant JG. It was a pleasure to know him, and I am sure he is in a better place because of his kindness to others...Alexander Monroe, CAPT USN Ret.
- Alexander Monroe, Midlothian, VA
I was a teacher and Tom was a student at Christchurch School in the late fifties. I remember him then as one of the finest of young men and it is clear that he continued in that vein all of his life. His family will miss him, but they can be supported by many fine memories.
- spud parker, reedville, VA
Dear Tom, Ashley and Carrie, I just heard the news about your Dad today, and wanted to send a note. Your Dad and I go back to St Stephen's School in Alexandria Grade 7, 8; later, as roommates at Hampden Sydney College. A few years later, 1972, I visited you in CT when he was with GE and I was heading to Europe. Tommy was there, but I'm unsure about the girls. I remember long talks with Tom about a potential opportunity in Hilton Head, and urged him to follow up as it sounded just what he needed and was about. In the early 90's I visited Savannah with my then wife and 2 young boys. I think one or two of you were there then. Your Dad was a special guy, a smart one, a good friend, a buddy. We shared a lot in those early years, and then lost touch as people do. Passing brings family and friends together. I am glad to have the opportunity to share a bit of history and a few thoughts with you all. I wish you well. I'll miss your Dad, his sense of humor and his raucous laugh.
- Tony Burke, Chiang Mai, - Other
Happy Birthday Dad! Love Tommy
- Tommy, Savannah, GA
Carrie and Family, We are sending our love and prayers to you and your family during this difficult time. Although, we did not know your father, he truely sounds like he was a pretty wonderful man. I am sure he will be missed. May all of you have the strength to get through this awful time. We are thinking of you. Sincerely, Debbi and Michael Jennings
- Debbi Jennings, larchmont, NY
I love you Dad, as Tommy so profoundly said, we will miss you forever.
- Carrie, , GA
My first boat ride was on Tom's boat, the Ann T. Scott, my first ride in a convertible was in Tom's black MG. My first time spending the night with a friend was at Tom's house with his son, Tommy. Tom was an amazing man with a style all his own. He was cool but approachable. He was really into his kids. And he had an attitude that was contagious. He was a risk taker and an entrepreneur and a true inspiration to all that knew him. I always enjoyed the times I got to spend with Tommy and Tom, no matter the decade, and I know Tom's spirit will live on with all that knew and loved him.
- Greg Ellison, Hilton Head, SC
My God keep you and your family,in these difficult times. Marlon Epps & family.
- Marlon O. Epps, Savannah, GA
I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope your memories help you through this difficult time.
- Judy Munaco Whaley, N. Charleston, SC
Our deepest sympathy to all the Booth Family. May the LORD hold Tom in the palm of his hand forever.
- Danny & Effie Michaels, Virginia Beach, VA
Dearest Tom, 'Lost love is still love. It takes a different form, that’s all. You can’t see their smile or bring them food or tousle their hair or move them around a dance floor. But when those senses weaken another heightens. Memory. Memory becomes your partner. You nurture it. You hold it. You dance with it. Life has to end; love doesn’t.” The Love your father radiated is all over these pages. I now understand from where your benevolence came. My sincere thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this bittersweet time.
- Laurie Heller, Savannah, GA
Tom - my family's thoughts and prayers are with you at this most trying time. We will remember you in our nightly prayers and this will inspire us to never forget how precious life is and loved ones are.
- Angie Martin, Dublin, GA
In fond memories of shared happy times, and with our deepest sympathies for the family in the loss of Tom, an amazing man. Bruce and Susan
- Bruce & Susan McGranahan, Wilmington, GA
In fond memories of shared happy times, and with our deepest sympathies for the family in the loss of Tom, an amazing man. Bruce and Susan
- Bruce & Susan McGranahan, Wilmington, GA
MY HUSBAND,RICHARD, WAS STATIONED WITH MR.BOOTH ON THE USS NOTABLE. HE WAS ON THE MED CRUISE WHEN THE BOMB WAS RECOVERED. THE FAMILY'S IN MY THOUGHTS AT THIS TIME.
- ELLEN REED, GOOSE CREEK, SC
So sorry to hear of Tom's passing and am thinking of his family and loved ones. Godspeed.
- Beverly Serral, Hilton Head Island, SC
Dad I love you so much. It is a forever love that will never cease and only grow stronger the more I remember you and recall your funny jokes, all of the advice and support that you gave to me over the years that only a father could give to his son, your laughter, the times that you would pick me up and we would just cruise around Savannah, sitting with you at your place and talking about times of old and new things, remembering biking through Hilton Head or sailing the waterways around Hilton Head and beyond, or stopping by the General Store to get a piece of bubble gum when I was really little with you. I could recount awesome, random memory after memory of our time together, but I'll leave that to private times of reflection or talking with family and friends about you. Con't below:
- Tommy Booth, Savannah, GA
Nothing will bring you back, I know. No matter how many tears I shed, I know that you are in a much better place, but I miss you so much. You were taken so quickly that it doesn't even seem real. I will remember forever Heather and I sitting with you not even a week ago laughing and talking. We were all so happy. I remember we gave each other a high five and I told you that I loved you when we were leaving. We left and it would be the last time that I would ever see you. You told Heather and I that you loved us before we left. What a blessing that we all three got to be together one last time. What a blessing that Isabelle and Sydney got to be with you on Christmas Day laughing and asking you so many random, inquisitive questions that only a 4 and 6 year old could ask. You brought such joy and happiness to them that day. Their smiles, laughter and giggles when they were with you for that last time was amazing.
- Tommy Booth, Savannah, GA
Please read this letter starting three entries down, What a blessing that you got to be with Carrie, Colin, and Abby and Kathryn this week as well as Ashley, Elizabeth, Samuel, and Priscilla just last week. I know that Dad would have loved to have seen Justin as well just last week. Dad, you got to be with everyone of your children and grandchildren last week, and we all got to be with you. Thank you for such a wonderful gift. Words will never convey the love and respect that I have for you, and the grief and sadness that fills me and surrounds me now. I am going to let your love for me and my love for you wash away my grief over time, and I will forever carry in my heart my love for you, your kind face, your strength and resolve, your humor and laughter, and just you for being you, a father and friend. I will love you forever Dad, and I will always tell Isabelle and Isabelle how much their Granddad loved them. I love you Dad. Love, Tommy
- Tommy Booth, Savannah, GA
I will always tell Isabelle and Sydney how much their Granddad loved them. I love you Dad. Love, Tommy
- Tommy Booth, Savannah, GA
Carrie and family, My thoughts and prayers are for you during this time. God blesses us with memories that keep us smiling. Stay strong and know that you are loved and missed! I'll call you soon. Katherine Q.
- Katherine Quattlebaum Harper, Durham, NC
Dear Tommy, Ashley and Carrie, We cannot imagine the pain and sorrow you are experiencing at this most difficult time. I will always remember Tom behind the wheel of his sailboat enjoying the day. We wish you peace, love and fond memories of your dad. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love, Margaret, Joel, Zachary, Ben and Perry
- Margaret and Family, Potomac, MD
Good bye my dear friend. I am very sad, and as Tommy said, it just doesn't seem real. i am blessed to have had you as a friend, and will always remember all our good times, and laughter. You were always so funny. I will miss you and Tybee
- Rhondda Netherton, Savannah, GA
Tom was the very first friend that John and I had when we moved to Savannah nearly 2 years ago. The minute we met Tom we hit it off and we could tell that he would be someone we could count on for love, support, and of course, many laughs. Being so far away from our own families was made much easier by having Tom in our lives. John and I often told Tom that he was like a father to us. He was always ready to give us invaluable advice about life, love, and business. Tom was very special to us, and we feel extremely lucky to have known him. We miss him very much.
- Maggie & John Granquist, Savannah, GA
John and I are so sad to hear this news. We will always remember Tom's humor and intelligence. A friend of mine just this past week recalled a dinner cruise we went on with Tom when I was in Savannah on business. Tom managed to entertain everyone present and we had such a lovely time. But my favorite memory was when Tom drove me around the Charleston Naval Base in his beloved Austin Healey. Very impressive for the 15 yr old girl I was at the time. Our love and sympathy to Tommy, Carrie and Ashley and the grandchildren and all the others who so loved your dad. Love Aunt Nancy and cousin John
- Nancy Deane, Indian Land, SC
Tom was like a father to my wife Maggie and myself. We began our relationship as landlord-tenants, and it grew into more than just a friendship. Tom was family to us. I wish he was here so I could shake his hand one more time and tell him how much he means to us. I miss you big guy...you will never leave us. Maggie and I love you so much.
- John and Maggie Granquist, Savannah, GA
I remember the manifold kindnesses he showed me when I was at Christchurch School. Moreover, I knew him in the Navy when I was an Ensign and he was of the elevated status of Lieutenant JG. It was a pleasure to know him, and I am sure he is in a better place because of his kindness to others...Alexander Monroe, CAPT USN Ret.
- Alexander Monroe, Midlothian, VA
I was a teacher and Tom was a student at Christchurch School in the late fifties. I remember him then as one of the finest of young men and it is clear that he continued in that vein all of his life. His family will miss him, but they can be supported by many fine memories.
- spud parker, reedville, VA
Dear Tom, Ashley and Carrie, I just heard the news about your Dad today, and wanted to send a note. Your Dad and I go back to St Stephen's School in Alexandria Grade 7, 8; later, as roommates at Hampden Sydney College. A few years later, 1972, I visited you in CT when he was with GE and I was heading to Europe. Tommy was there, but I'm unsure about the girls. I remember long talks with Tom about a potential opportunity in Hilton Head, and urged him to follow up as it sounded just what he needed and was about. In the early 90's I visited Savannah with my then wife and 2 young boys. I think one or two of you were there then. Your Dad was a special guy, a smart one, a good friend, a buddy. We shared a lot in those early years, and then lost touch as people do. Passing brings family and friends together. I am glad to have the opportunity to share a bit of history and a few thoughts with you all. I wish you well. I'll miss your Dad, his sense of humor and his raucous laugh.
- Tony Burke, Chiang Mai, - Other -
Happy Birthday Dad! Love Tommy
- Tommy, Savannah, GA
Carrie and Family, We are sending our love and prayers to you and your family during this difficult time. Although, we did not know your father, he truely sounds like he was a pretty wonderful man. I am sure he will be missed. May all of you have the strength to get through this awful time. We are thinking of you. Sincerely, Debbi and Michael Jennings
- Debbi Jennings, larchmont, NY
I love you Dad, as Tommy so profoundly said, we will miss you forever.
- Carrie, , GA
My first boat ride was on Tom's boat, the Ann T. Scott, my first ride in a convertible was in Tom's black MG. My first time spending the night with a friend was at Tom's house with his son, Tommy. Tom was an amazing man with a style all his own. He was cool but approachable. He was really into his kids. And he had an attitude that was contagious. He was a risk taker and an entrepreneur and a true inspiration to all that knew him. I always enjoyed the times I got to spend with Tommy and Tom, no matter the decade, and I know Tom's spirit will live on with all that knew and loved him.
- Greg Ellison, Hilton Head, SC
My God keep you and your family,in these difficult times. Marlon Epps & family.
- Marlon O. Epps, Savannah, GA
I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope your memories help you through this difficult time.
- Judy Munaco Whaley, N. Charleston, SC
Our deepest sympathy to all the Booth Family. May the LORD hold Tom in the palm of his hand forever.
- Danny & Effie Michaels, Virginia Beach, VA
Dearest Tom, 'Lost love is still love. It takes a different form, that’s all. You can’t see their smile or bring them food or tousle their hair or move them around a dance floor. But when those senses weaken another heightens. Memory. Memory becomes your partner. You nurture it. You hold it. You dance with it. Life has to end; love doesn’t.” The Love your father radiated is all over these pages. I now understand from where your benevolence came. My sincere thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this bittersweet time.
- Laurie Heller, Savannah, GA
Tom - my family's thoughts and prayers are with you at this most trying time. We will remember you in our nightly prayers and this will inspire us to never forget how precious life is and loved ones are.
- Angie Martin, Dublin, GA
In fond memories of shared happy times, and with our deepest sympathies for the family in the loss of Tom, an amazing man. Bruce and Susan
- Bruce & Susan McGranahan, Wilmington, GA
In fond memories of shared happy times, and with our deepest sympathies for the family in the loss of Tom, an amazing man. Bruce and Susan
- Bruce & Susan McGranahan, Wilmington, GA
MY HUSBAND,RICHARD, WAS STATIONED WITH MR.BOOTH ON THE USS NOTABLE. HE WAS ON THE MED CRUISE WHEN THE BOMB WAS RECOVERED. THE FAMILY'S IN MY THOUGHTS AT THIS TIME.
- ELLEN REED, GOOSE CREEK, SC
So sorry to hear of Tom's passing and am thinking of his family and loved ones. Godspeed.
- Beverly Serral, Hilton Head Island, SC
Dad I love you so much. It is a forever love that will never cease and only grow stronger the more I remember you and recall your funny jokes, all of the advice and support that you gave to me over the years that only a father could give to his son, your laughter, the times that you would pick me up and we would just cruise around Savannah, sitting with you at your place and talking about times of old and new things, remembering biking through Hilton Head or sailing the waterways around Hilton Head and beyond, or stopping by the General Store to get a piece of bubble gum when I was really little with you. I could recount awesome, random memory after memory of our time together, but I'll leave that to private times of reflection or talking with family and friends about you. Con't below:
- Tommy Booth, Savannah, GA
Nothing will bring you back, I know. No matter how many tears I shed, I know that you are in a much better place, but I miss you so much. You were taken so quickly that it doesn't even seem real. I will remember forever Heather and I sitting with you not even a week ago laughing and talking. We were all so happy. I remember we gave each other a high five and I told you that I loved you when we were leaving. We left and it would be the last time that I would ever see you. You told Heather and I that you loved us before we left. What a blessing that we all three got to be together one last time. What a blessing that Isabelle and Sydney got to be with you on Christmas Day laughing and asking you so many random, inquisitive questions that only a 4 and 6 year old could ask. You brought such joy and happiness to them that day. Their smiles, laughter and giggles when they were with you for that last time was amazing.
- Tommy Booth, Savannah, GA
Please read this letter starting three entries down, What a blessing that you got to be with Carrie, Colin, and Abby and Kathryn this week as well as Ashley, Elizabeth, Samuel, and Priscilla just last week. I know that Dad would have loved to have seen Justin as well just last week. Dad, you got to be with everyone of your children and grandchildren last week, and we all got to be with you. Thank you for such a wonderful gift. Words will never convey the love and respect that I have for you, and the grief and sadness that fills me and surrounds me now. I am going to let your love for me and my love for you wash away my grief over time, and I will forever carry in my heart my love for you, your kind face, your strength and resolve, your humor and laughter, and just you for being you, a father and friend. I will love you forever Dad, and I will always tell Isabelle and Isabelle how much their Granddad loved them. I love you Dad. Love, Tommy
- Tommy Booth, Savannah, GA
I will always tell Isabelle and Sydney how much their Granddad loved them. I love you Dad. Love, Tommy
- Tommy Booth, Savannah, GA
Carrie and family, My thoughts and prayers are for you during this time. God blesses us with memories that keep us smiling. Stay strong and know that you are loved and missed! I'll call you soon. Katherine Q.
- Katherine Quattlebaum Harper, Durham, NC
Dear Tommy, Ashley and Carrie, We cannot imagine the pain and sorrow you are experiencing at this most difficult time. I will always remember Tom behind the wheel of his sailboat enjoying the day. We wish you peace, love and fond memories of your dad. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love, Margaret, Joel, Zachary, Ben and Perry
- Margaret and Family, Potomac, MD
Good bye my dear friend. I am very sad, and as Tommy said, it just doesn't seem real. i am blessed to have had you as a friend, and will always remember all our good times, and laughter. You were always so funny. I will miss you and Tybee
- Rhondda Netherton, Savannah, GA
Tom was the very first friend that John and I had when we moved to Savannah nearly 2 years ago. The minute we met Tom we hit it off and we could tell that he would be someone we could count on for love, support, and of course, many laughs. Being so far away from our own families was made much easier by having Tom in our lives. John and I often told Tom that he was like a father to us. He was always ready to give us invaluable advice about life, love, and business. Tom was very special to us, and we feel extremely lucky to have known him. We miss him very much.
- Maggie & John Granquist, Savannah, GA
John and I are so sad to hear this news. We will always remember Tom's humor and intelligence. A friend of mine just this past week recalled a dinner cruise we went on with Tom when I was in Savannah on business. Tom managed to entertain everyone present and we had such a lovely time. But my favorite memory was when Tom drove me around the Charleston Naval Base in his beloved Austin Healey. Very impressive for the 15 yr old girl I was at the time. Our love and sympathy to Tommy, Carrie and Ashley and the grandchildren and all the others who so loved your dad. Love Aunt Nancy and cousin John
- Nancy Deane, Indian Land, SC
Tom was like a father to my wife Maggie and myself. We began our relationship as landlord-tenants, and it grew into more than just a friendship. Tom was family to us. I wish he was here so I could shake his hand one more time and tell him how much he means to us. I miss you big guy...you will never leave us. Maggie and I love you so much.
- John and Maggie Granquist, Savannah, GA
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200

