Thomas M. Zima

Tom was born in Yonkers, New York on July 23rd, 1944 to Frank and Agnes Zima. the youngest of four children, Tom had one sister and two brothers-Jay, Billy, and Frank. After graduating from Sacred Heart High School, Tom enlisted in the Marine Corps. After serving four years as a Marine, Tom transitioned into the United States Air Force where he quickly rose through the ranks to Chief Master Sergeant. It was during this time that he become affectionately known as “Chief”. A highlight of his career was serving alongside the brave men and women of the AF Ammo community. A veteran of both the Vietnam and Gulf Wars, he retired in 1993 after over thirty years of active duty service. Soon after retirement, Tom began instructing the local Air Force JROTC where he impacted hundreds of bright young minds during his tenure.

Throughout his prestigious military career he was stationed all over the world including in Spain, Korea, Thailand, and his beloved Guam. An avid traveler for leisure as well, he collected both stories and parts of different cultures from across the globe. In his later years, Tom could often be found aboard a cruise ship and occasionally found himself starring in an onboard show singing “My Way”. A beloved member of his local VFW Post, Tom held various leadership roles to include serving as President. He could often be found there trading old war stories and enjoying time with friends.

Tom is survived by his wife, Lois, and three children- Deidre Jessup , Thomas Zima Jr., and Shawn Zima. He was a loving “Pop Pop” to six grandchildren.

A visitation is planned for Tom on Friday, December 4th at 9:00 a.m, followed by the funeral service at 10:00 a.m, at St. Ann Catholic Church of Gulf Breeze. The committal service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Barrancas National Cemetery, NAS Pensacola, with the funeral cortege departing Bayview Fisher-Pou Chapel at 12:00 p.m.

BAYVIEW FISHER-POU CHAPEL, 3351 Scenic Highway is entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be offered at www.bayviewfisher-pouchapel.com.