Tommy Lane Whitmore passed away Saturday, February 12, 2011 in Bakersfield; born in Dennis, Texas on July 24, 1934 to Minnie Emile (Music) and Jesse James Whitmore, one of seven siblings. He met and fell in love with Marlene (Poe) and they married in Odessa, Texas on December 3, 1954, together they raised two beautiful children and grandchildren. He was employed with Associated Automatic Fire Sprinklers for 45 years,and then operated his own business (T&M Fire Sprinklers) and a union member of Local 669. Tommy was a terrific husband, father and grandfather. Tommy had many hobbies that allowed him to be in the great outdoors such as family camping trips, motorcycling, collector of trains and a horse rider, and being a private pilot flying his aircraft; nothing, however, compared to spending much of his time with his grandchildren and sharing all that he'd learned in his life, making sure they too were enjoying life; Tommy was best known as "The Rock of his Family". Tommy Whitmore was preceded in death by his daughter Teresa Lane Harris (4/08); brother Johnny James Whitmore (2009) sisters Beryle Simpkins (12/2010) and Margaret Pearcy; and best friend in life Patricia (Trish) Edwards (3:00 am 02/12/2011). He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years Marlene; son James David Whitmore of Bakersfield; brother Deward Whitmore; sisters Ana Faye Phelan and Joyce Griffith; 2 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren all of Tennessee; many good friends, his sweet dog Shuee, and numerous acquaintances. Tommy touched many people's lives and shared many smiles; all who knew him will miss him dearly. A 3:00 pm Memorial Service is scheduled for Tommy Lane Whitmore, age 76, of Bakersfield, Wednesday, February 16, 2011 at Peters Funeral Home.