Celebrating the life of
Thomas C. Sprague
November 22, 1939 - November 09, 2011
Thomas C. Sprague
Retired Chief of Police
Chatham County Police Department
Savannah- Thomas C. Sprague, 71, passed away Wednesday, November 9, 2011 at Candler Hospital.
Chief Sprague was born in Troy, New York on November 22, 1939 to Thomas and Muriel Doin Sprague. He attended Russell Sage College, Texas Southernmost College and the University of South Florida. He proudly served in the United States Marine Corp from 1956 to 1959 before beginning a lifetime dedicated to public service. His distinguished law enforcement career began with assignment to the United States Border Patrol in 1962. From the Border Patrol, he moved to the United States Customs Service and then to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration in 1973.
After 2 ½ years of retirement, he returned to public service where he was instrumental in forming and was the first commander of the Chatham-Savannah Counter Narcotics Team CNT. During his tenure, the CNT recorded a better than ninety percent conviction rate on narcotic cases in Chatham County.
In 1996 he was appointed Chief of Police of the Chatham County Police Department. Under his leadership he expanded the size of the Internal Affairs Unit, thereby providing personalized interaction and accountability to the citizens of Chatham County. In 1997 the Chatham County Police Department obtained National Accreditation and State Certification by his implementation of policies, procedures and community based programs consistent with professional standards required. He was instrumental in securing equipment for the Chatham County Bomb Squad, the Forensics Unit was upgraded, and a cyber crimes section was added. He expanded the operational scope of the Chatham County Marine Patrol Unit and crime fighting and public safety equipment was added to ensure that Officers had what was necessary to perform their law enforcement duties. His most innovative idea was to spearhead the merging of the Chatham County Police Department with the City of Savannah Police Department.
He was a member of numerous organizations including the International Association of Chiefs of Police, Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police, Peace Officers Association of Georgia, The Association of Former Federal Narcotic Agents, Fraternal Order of Border Agents, Fraternal Order of Border Patrol Officers, International Narcotics Enforcement Officers Association, Savannah Detachment Marine Corps League, Southside Optimist Club, Savannah Quarterback Club, and the Chatham County Police Association.
He is survived by his wife of forty years, Barbara Sprague of Savannah; sons, Jamie Sprague Deena of Pensacola, FL, Cary Sprague of Tampa, FL; stepsons, Steven Willis of Bluff City, TN, Brent Willis of Bristol, TN; brothers, Richard Sprague Mary Frances of Rensselaer, NY, James Sprague Sue of New York; grandchildren, Cary Sprague, Amanda Sprague, Shane Sprague, and Savannah Sprague. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Shelagh Allen Sprague.
The funeral Service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, November 12, 2011 at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel with The Reverend Patrick O'Brien officiating. Chief Sprague will be laid to rest in the Greenwich Section of Bonaventure Cemetery with full military honors. There will be no visitation.
Commander' Our hearts are broken, and at the same time we are at peace knowing that you are no longer in pain, but surrounded by all those who have gone before you. We knew you were special, but it didn't really sink in until your services; Russ and Mike summed it all up so eloquently. Our April vacations will not be the same without your itinerary! We will miss our phone chats and emails! Guide and watch over those you have left behind. Until we meet again, we love you and miss you!
- Rick & Fran Sprague, East Greenbush, NY
Commander'-I never did get that shirt printed up like I wanted to!After sitting and listening to the eulogies that were given at your funeral, I can certainly see why and how Rick looked up to you! What a career you had, and what an impact you had on those who worked for and with you! As I sat and heard the words spoken, I said to myself, Rick is just like him. There is no better person that could have guided him along his career path as you have, and for that I am so grateful. Please watch over him as he approaches each work day; we know how crazy the world is. I love you like you were my own brother, my heart is broken. Thank you for being you. All my love always,
- Fran Sprague, East Greenbush, NY
Tom, Will be missed at the MCL meeting.He was a person you enjoyed being around. Our prays are with the Family. Louise/Jerry Gill
- Jerry Gill, Savannah, GA
Barbara, Sandra and I often talk of your visit to Quito and ours to Bogota. I can't express how much Tom will be missed. Please take care of yourself. Terry and Sandra Fernandez
- Terry Fernandez, Casselberry, FL
Dear Barbara, Sandra and I want extend our deepest condolences to you. Please call us if there is anything you need. You are in our prayers. Sincerely, Jack Barwick III
- Jack Barwick III, Richmond Hill, GA
Thank you Tom for loving my sons,Steve, Brent and Randy. They had great respect for you.
- jim willis, bristol, TN
Barbara & Family, Sorry for your loss. I remember the good times with you and family when you visited up North. Tom will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him. He is now at peace and with those who have gone before. Love, Cousin Bev
- Beverly R. Murphy, Sun City Center, FL
I worked with TOM when I was the RAC in Colombia,SC for DEA. He was a friend and an outsranding person .
- PETE CHARETTE, Acworth, GA
Barbara and family: My heartfelt sympathies. My earliest memories of Butch was at a party given by Aunt Muriel and Uncle Tom when Butch came home in full dress uniform. Everyone was there; all the Aunts, Uncles and cousins, including Otto. Someone had given all the youngsters new nickles and Otto wanted to show us how to flip coins. Butch warned us against getting involved because Otto would keep the coins if he won. Well, none of us took his advice and Otto kept all our coins. We were devastated. Butch saw that coming and no one listened. While I haven't seen him often over the last years, my memories are all pleasant and I looked forward to his treks up North. May GOD bless Butch, his family and comfort those who are grieving. He will be missed as he was an honest to goodness true American in every sense. The country as well as the family have suffered a greivous loss.
- Joe Murphy, Nassau, NY
So sorry for your loss,
- Brenda Bacon, Savannah, GA
To Barbara and Family, I had the great privilege to work with Tom during his tour in Bogota and I always considered him a friend and exceptional leader. I last saw him when he was the Chief of Police and I noticed he had not lost a bit of his enthusiasm for the job as he proudly gave me a tour of the department. I learned many leadership lessons from Tom and still use them today. He was an “agent’s agent.” Sharing your sorrows and with Tom in my prayers, Gary Sheridan DEA Retired
- Gary Sheridan, Highland, MI
Our condolences to all in the family. The days we shared with Tom in Tampa are fun memories. He was a super agent. Tom and Trudy South
- Tom South, Tampa, FL
Dear Aunt Barbara Ann & cousins, Accept our deepest sympathy, love, and prayers for you and Uncle Tom. What a man! What a life! We pray that our God will be with you in grief,he will surround you with his love,that you may not be overwhelmed by this loss, but have confidence and strength to meet the days ahead. Love & prayers, Tina & family
- Christina Dorn, Anniston, AL
Dear Aunt Barbara Ann & cousins, Accept our deepest sympathy, love, and prayers for you and Uncle Tom. What a man! What a life! We pray that our God will be with you in grief,he will surround you with his love,that you may not be overwhelmed by this loss, but have confidence and strength to meet the days ahead. Love & prayers, Tina & family
- Christina Dorn, Anniston, AL
My thoughts and prayers are with the Sprague family. Tom was a great guy and fun to talk with. His company at he Quarterback Club will be missed.
- Dan Cook, Savannah, GA
Rest in peace old friend. Tom and I worked many narcotic investigations together. Tom was always a thorough, innovative, as well as an honest and trustworthy criminal investigator. He had been a US Marine, a Border Patrol Agent, a Special Agent with both US Customs and the Drug Enforcement Administration. All federal. Then he went on to become a Commander of a local Narcotic Investigative Unit, then the Chief of Police. A life time of public service. Thanks Tom for your service and friendship. RIP Condolences to Barbara and family.
- Harold R. Stein DEA ret., Wadmalaw Island, SC
Aunt Barb, Jaime & Cary, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Uncle Butch will be greatly missed....
- Darlene, Wynantskill, NY
The real deal and a great guy. Rest in peace Tom.
- Bob and Pam Hammer, Pam's No. 1, Brunswick, GA
I love you Dad. You are missed dearly by your family. May you rest in peace and suffer no more.
- Cary Sprague, Tampa, FL
Dear Barbara and entire Family, This is truly a sad day for Chatham County.Tom's suffering is now over and his great deeds and service will continue to touch many people for a long time.It was a distinct honor to work with him.You will all be in our thoughts and prayers.
- Tom and Judy Mahoney, Savannah, GA
Dad we love you. Hi grampy its Savannah I love you and I am going to miss you sooo much I will be cheering for the Georgia Bulldogs for you,you will always be in my heart.
- Jamie Sprague, , FL
Barbara & Family, we are so sorry for your loss. I remember the good times we had when we lived in Georgetown at least 100 years ago. Take care and our thoughts and prayers are with you.
- Mary & Doug LeFevre, Eden, GA
I was Tom's partner in DEA Tampa in the early 70's. We have always kept in close contact. He was one of the best agents I've ever had the honor of working with and a true and loyal friend.. His passing brings deepest sorrow. God bless you, old buddy. Love ya. You will be missed. Sincerest condolances to Barbara and family.
- Ray Worsham, Newport, NC
Ms. Barbara - I am thinking about you and your family right now and remember a time when my heart was broken and you were all there for me and so was Tom. I love you! Elizabeth Ann Scott and the family of Detective Robert Scott
- Elizabeth Ann Scott, Savannah, GA
Grandpa, You had an impact on so many people in your life and because of this you won't be forgotten. I will cherish all of the amazing memories we had together. I love and will miss you. Go Bulldogs!
- Cary J Sprague, Tampa, FL
Commander' Our hearts are broken, and at the same time we are at peace knowing that you are no longer in pain, but surrounded by all those who have gone before you. We knew you were special, but it didn't really sink in until your services; Russ and Mike summed it all up so eloquently. Our April vacations will not be the same without your itinerary! We will miss our phone chats and emails! Guide and watch over those you have left behind. Until we meet again, we love you and miss you!
- Rick & Fran Sprague, East Greenbush, NY
Commander'-I never did get that shirt printed up like I wanted to!After sitting and listening to the eulogies that were given at your funeral, I can certainly see why and how Rick looked up to you! What a career you had, and what an impact you had on those who worked for and with you! As I sat and heard the words spoken, I said to myself, Rick is just like him. There is no better person that could have guided him along his career path as you have, and for that I am so grateful. Please watch over him as he approaches each work day; we know how crazy the world is. I love you like you were my own brother, my heart is broken. Thank you for being you. All my love always,
- Fran Sprague, East Greenbush, NY
Tom, Will be missed at the MCL meeting.He was a person you enjoyed being around. Our prays are with the Family. Louise/Jerry Gill
- Jerry Gill, Savannah, GA
Barbara, Sandra and I often talk of your visit to Quito and ours to Bogota. I can't express how much Tom will be missed. Please take care of yourself. Terry and Sandra Fernandez
- Terry Fernandez, Casselberry, FL
Dear Barbara, Sandra and I want extend our deepest condolences to you. Please call us if there is anything you need. You are in our prayers. Sincerely, Jack Barwick III
- Jack Barwick III, Richmond Hill, GA
Thank you Tom for loving my sons,Steve, Brent and Randy. They had great respect for you.
- jim willis, bristol, TN
Barbara & Family, Sorry for your loss. I remember the good times with you and family when you visited up North. Tom will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him. He is now at peace and with those who have gone before. Love, Cousin Bev
- Beverly R. Murphy, Sun City Center, FL
I worked with TOM when I was the RAC in Colombia,SC for DEA. He was a friend and an outsranding person .
- PETE CHARETTE, Acworth, GA
Barbara and family: My heartfelt sympathies. My earliest memories of Butch was at a party given by Aunt Muriel and Uncle Tom when Butch came home in full dress uniform. Everyone was there; all the Aunts, Uncles and cousins, including Otto. Someone had given all the youngsters new nickles and Otto wanted to show us how to flip coins. Butch warned us against getting involved because Otto would keep the coins if he won. Well, none of us took his advice and Otto kept all our coins. We were devastated. Butch saw that coming and no one listened. While I haven't seen him often over the last years, my memories are all pleasant and I looked forward to his treks up North. May GOD bless Butch, his family and comfort those who are grieving. He will be missed as he was an honest to goodness true American in every sense. The country as well as the family have suffered a greivous loss.
- Joe Murphy, Nassau, NY
So sorry for your loss,
- Brenda Bacon, Savannah, GA
To Barbara and Family, I had the great privilege to work with Tom during his tour in Bogota and I always considered him a friend and exceptional leader. I last saw him when he was the Chief of Police and I noticed he had not lost a bit of his enthusiasm for the job as he proudly gave me a tour of the department. I learned many leadership lessons from Tom and still use them today. He was an “agent’s agent.” Sharing your sorrows and with Tom in my prayers, Gary Sheridan DEA Retired
- Gary Sheridan, Highland, MI
Our condolences to all in the family. The days we shared with Tom in Tampa are fun memories. He was a super agent. Tom and Trudy South
- Tom South, Tampa, FL
Dear Aunt Barbara Ann & cousins, Accept our deepest sympathy, love, and prayers for you and Uncle Tom. What a man! What a life! We pray that our God will be with you in grief,he will surround you with his love,that you may not be overwhelmed by this loss, but have confidence and strength to meet the days ahead. Love & prayers, Tina & family
- Christina Dorn, Anniston, AL
Dear Aunt Barbara Ann & cousins, Accept our deepest sympathy, love, and prayers for you and Uncle Tom. What a man! What a life! We pray that our God will be with you in grief,he will surround you with his love,that you may not be overwhelmed by this loss, but have confidence and strength to meet the days ahead. Love & prayers, Tina & family
- Christina Dorn, Anniston, AL
My thoughts and prayers are with the Sprague family. Tom was a great guy and fun to talk with. His company at he Quarterback Club will be missed.
- Dan Cook, Savannah, GA
Rest in peace old friend. Tom and I worked many narcotic investigations together. Tom was always a thorough, innovative, as well as an honest and trustworthy criminal investigator. He had been a US Marine, a Border Patrol Agent, a Special Agent with both US Customs and the Drug Enforcement Administration. All federal. Then he went on to become a Commander of a local Narcotic Investigative Unit, then the Chief of Police. A life time of public service. Thanks Tom for your service and friendship. RIP Condolences to Barbara and family.
- Harold R. Stein DEA ret., Wadmalaw Island, SC
Aunt Barb, Jaime & Cary, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Uncle Butch will be greatly missed....
- Darlene, Wynantskill, NY
The real deal and a great guy. Rest in peace Tom.
- Bob and Pam Hammer, Pam's No. 1, Brunswick, GA
I love you Dad. You are missed dearly by your family. May you rest in peace and suffer no more.
- Cary Sprague, Tampa, FL
Dear Barbara and entire Family, This is truly a sad day for Chatham County.Tom's suffering is now over and his great deeds and service will continue to touch many people for a long time.It was a distinct honor to work with him.You will all be in our thoughts and prayers.
- Tom and Judy Mahoney, Savannah, GA
Dad we love you. Hi grampy its Savannah I love you and I am going to miss you sooo much I will be cheering for the Georgia Bulldogs for you,you will always be in my heart.
- Jamie Sprague, , FL
Barbara & Family, we are so sorry for your loss. I remember the good times we had when we lived in Georgetown at least 100 years ago. Take care and our thoughts and prayers are with you.
- Mary & Doug LeFevre, Eden, GA
I was Tom's partner in DEA Tampa in the early 70's. We have always kept in close contact. He was one of the best agents I've ever had the honor of working with and a true and loyal friend.. His passing brings deepest sorrow. God bless you, old buddy. Love ya. You will be missed. Sincerest condolances to Barbara and family.
- Ray Worsham, Newport, NC
Ms. Barbara - I am thinking about you and your family right now and remember a time when my heart was broken and you were all there for me and so was Tom. I love you! Elizabeth Ann Scott and the family of Detective Robert Scott
- Elizabeth Ann Scott, Savannah, GA
Grandpa, You had an impact on so many people in your life and because of this you won't be forgotten. I will cherish all of the amazing memories we had together. I love and will miss you. Go Bulldogs!
- Cary J Sprague, Tampa, FL
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
