Tom was born on August 8, 1926 in Rutherford County, NC to the late Benjamin Richard Tessnear and Zora Bridges Tessnear.  He worked for Cone Mills for 40 years before his retirement.  He was also a longtime member of Henrietta First Baptist Church. He was known for his sense of humor, hard work and willingness to be caring and helping toward others.  He loved square dancing, traveling, but most of all spending time with his friends and family. 

     In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by six brothers and one sister.

     Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Leona Tessnear; one daughter, Censythia Diane Whitaker and husband, Stanley of Shelby, NC; one granddaughter, Julie Young and husband, Joe of Hickory, NC; two great grandchildren, Abigail Young and Nathaniel Young; one brother-in-law, Rickey Robbins and wife, Dorlene of Henrietta; two sister-in-laws, Annette Robbins of Henrietta and Bonnie Tessnear of Alexander.  He is also survived by nine nieces and nephews, which includes Pat Robbins and Paige Robbins.   

     Funeral services will be conducted at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 2, 2011 at the Henrietta First Baptist Church with Reverend John Godfrey and Reverend Glen Wilson officiating. Interment will follow in Rutherford County Memorial Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 5:30 until 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home on Wednesday.

     In lieu of flowers, memorials donations are suggested to the Henrietta First Baptist Church Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 265, Henrietta, NC 28076.

     Harrelson Funeral Home is caring for the Tessnear Family.

An online guest registry is available at www.harrelsonfuneralhome.com