Thomas “T.J.” Carmichael

Thomas “T.J.” Carmichael, 82, peacefully passed away Thursday, September 20, 2018 in Duluth, Georgia. T.J. was born March 19, 1936 in Fairmont, NC to the late Wheeler and Ethel Carmichael.

T.J.’s passion for cars was demonstrated throughout his life. This passion enabled T.J. to secure a successful 30-year career with Ford Motor Company and retired in 1996.  T.J. was known as someone who would strike up a conversation with anyone.  Regardless of who you are, where you have been, or where you are going, T.J. received you right where you are and made you feel comfortable to share your life with him.  T.J. sincerely knew no strangers.  His friendly personality, contagious smile, and flavorful jokes would just brighten your day and made you feel like you reconnected with a friend. His first question to anyone was always, “what type of car do you drive?” This was the ultimate ice-breaker that would start a conversation lasting for hours.

T.J. met his wife Lucile Cooke in Baltimore, MD as a result of friend’s match-making surprise. Six months later, they married on October 4, 1958. Through their union, they had their son Jeff and daughter Sheila.   Those who knew T.J. knew of his caring heart for his family and his community. Whether it was to dig cars out of snow storms, driving buses for group trips, or to teach you how to drive at any age and especially, if you wanted to learn how to drive a standard transmission.  T.J. was always willing to help you and share a little North Carolina humor when responding to questions.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife Lucile Carmichael of Hartfield, VA; son Jeff Carmichael and his wife Cecilia of Lawrenceville, GA; daughter Sheila Carmichael of Lawrenceville, GA; and granddaughter Kiana Carmichael of Lawrenceville, GA.

T.J.’s big heart and contagious smile will be missed by all who knew him.

The Carmichael Family is being assisted by Georgia Cremation, 3570 Buford Hwy, Suite 202, Duluth, GA 30096, (678) 584-0914.

The family invites you to leave a condolence or share a fond memory of Thomas “T.J.” Carmichael at www.georgiacremation.com.