Thomas MacLennan Obituary

Thomas Gaines MacLennan ANDERSON, SC - Thomas Gaines MacLennan died peacefully on July 26, 2023 following a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. He was surrounded by his beloved family and many close friends. Tom was born in Anderson, South Carolina on July 28, 1948 to Murdoch Mackenzie MacLennan and Lucile Talmadge Gaines MacLennan. He grew up in Charleston, South Carolina, graduating from Charleston Southern University before obtaining a Master's degree at the University of South Carolina. Tom moved to Anderson in January 1986 to work at the newly-opened Patrick B. Harris Psychiatric Hospital. He worked in the field of psychiatry for over 48 years and discovered a passion for working with children. Tom was very patriotic and was proud of his service in the United States Navy from 1971-1973, including a tour in Vietnam. Tom often responded to others that he was in "tip top" shape and that became his nickname to many. He loved gardening, reading, exercising, playing tennis and serving the Lord. Tom served as a Deacon in three different churches and taught Sunday school for over 40 years. Tom is survived by his wife of 39 years, Jane Gilliland MacLennan; three sons, Thomas Gaines MacLennan, Jr. (Cameron), Pierce Talmadge MacLennan (Jenna), and John Banks MacLennan; beloved sister, Margaret MacLennan Barron (Chip); and four grandchildren, to whom he was known as "Poppy" - Gaines, Cile, Pierce, and Lawton. Services will be held at Concord Baptist Church on Saturday, July 29, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. Friends may visit from 4:30 to 6:30 on Friday, July 28, 20223 at the MacLennan home. Memorials may be made to the Haven of Rest of Anderson or Concord Baptist Church. Sullivan-King Mortuary www.sullivanking.com