Ret. Captain Thomas Kunz

Honoring a Life of Service, Faith, and Family

Retired Captain Thomas Kunz, age 71, of McDonough, Georgia, passed away on Sunday, January 4, 2026. Thomas was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend whose dedication to his family and community will be remembered with deep respect and affection.

Born on February 26, 1954, in St. Louis, Missouri, Thomas grew up surrounded by the love of family and the values that would shape his life. He graduated from Tucker High School in 1972, laying the foundation for a lifetime of service and integrity. A short time after graduation Thomas moved to Oregon.  While in Oregon he met and married his wife Shirley in January of 1980.

Thomas began his distinguished career in law enforcement in 1981 at the Lithonia Police Department. His commitment to public safety and justice led him to the Newton County Sheriff’s Office, where he served faithfully for 35 years, retiring as Captain. Throughout his tenure, Thomas earned the respect of his colleagues and the gratitude of the community.

Thomas found joy in the outdoors, spending countless hours hunting and fishing. He cherished these moments and often shared them with his family. Known for his humility, kindness, and unwavering compassion, Thomas touched the lives of all who knew him. His strong Christian faith was evident in his role as a founding member of Abiding Grace Lutheran Church, where he helped nurture a spirit of fellowship and service.

Thomas was preceded in death by his sister Linda Speagle. He is survived by his devoted wife Shirley Kunz, children Selina Roberts (Matt), and Alana Hoover (Matthew), his grandchildren Evan Marie, Channing, Wyatt, Kali, Hannah, and Waylon, his parents Ralph and Audrey Kunz, his siblings Don Kunz (Pam), Pamela Belt (Bob), James Kunz (Jennifer), Peyton Heimback (Bob), David Kunz (Sharon), and Teresa Otterstatter (Mike), his brother-in-law Mike Speagle, along with a host of nieces, nephews, other family members, and many close friends. His legacy of love, faith, and integrity will live on in their hearts.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2 o’clock, Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Abiding Grace Lutheran Church, 5500 GA-212, Covington, GA 30016. The family invites friends and loved ones to honor Thomas’s memory in their own special ways. His life stands as a testament to the power of kindness, service, and faith. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Georgia Wildlife Federation, www.gwf.org , Georgia Natural Resources Foundation, www.gnrf.gadnr.org/donate , or Abiding Grace Lutheran Church, www.abidinggrace.com/give .

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