Former Town Sergeant passes away at 72
Published 10:50 am Wednesday, August 8, 2018
Former Drakes Branch Town Sergeant Ira Thomas “Tommy” Galbreath, died Aug.1 at the age of 72. Galbreath previously began working as Town Sergeant in January 2005 and held the position for more than a decade.
Tommy Galbreath
“He was a good, down to earth man that would help anyone,” said Drakes Branch Fire Chief Kenny Tharpe. “He would always assist fire and rescue any way he could.”
Last December, the Town of Drakes Branch honored Galbreath with a resolution for his service and dedication.
At that time, Drakes Branch Mayor Denise Priden said “he was a special person to us in the town. He was an excellent town sergeant. He didn’t show any favoritism – that was the main thing I liked about Tommy … (He was) fair to everyone …He was just a fair officer and very helpful to anyone that he could help.”
She said although it was a custom to write resolutions for outgoing employees, the town members held a level of respect for Galbreath that extended beyond the formalities. At that time, Pridgen had noted Galbreath had battled health concerns, but nonetheless, was in good spirits when she previously visited him.
“Tommy was always there to lend a helping hand to anyone in town who needed him, said Drakes Branch Town Council Member Noah J. Davis. “We are grateful for his many years of service to the town. He will be greatly missed.”
According to his obituary, Galbreath was born June 20, 1946, and served in the U.S. Army before he went on to become a police officer with the Chesapeake Police Department.
“He retired as a detective after 23 years of service. He then went on to become the Town Sergeant for Drakes Branch Police Dept. and served for an additional 13 years. Above all, he was a devoted husband and father,” said the obituary.
Galbreath is survived by his wife Nancy Galbreath of over 28 years and children Tommy, Mary and John Galbreath, Lisa Osborn, Kimberly and Sarah Galbreath.
Additionally, his obituary said he is also survived by eight grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and six sisters.
A funeral service for Galbreath was held Saturday at Spring Creek Baptist Church.