Thomas Franklin Moberg

Thomas Franklin Moberg, 74, of Gallatin, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2025.

Born April 28, 1951, in Clinton, Minnesota, to Frank William Moberg and Elizabeth Agnes (O’Hara) Moberg, Tom grew up on the family farm surrounded by the wide-open spaces of rural Minnesota. From his earliest days, he was drawn to the sky. In first grade, when asked what he wanted to be when he grew up, he confidently told his class he wanted to fly jet airplanes—a dream he never abandoned.

A proud graduate of Clinton High School, where he played football, Tom remained deeply connected to his small-town Midwestern roots throughout his life. Even years later, while piloting fighter jets, he couldn’t resist buzzing the family farm and tipping his wings in greeting—despite strict policies against it.

A natural businessman with the classical ‘Moberg’ conservative values, Tom turned a savvy real estate investment during college into profit, emerging with more money than he started with. Tom entered the United States Air Force on April 6, 1974, and served with distinction as an F-106 fighter pilot until his honorable discharge on November 30, 1981. In May 1982, he joined Southwest Airlines, launching a long and admired career as a commercial pilot. Beloved and respected by coworkers, he retired from Southwest on April 27, 2016; just prior to his 65th birthday.

Generous and quietly giving, Tom was always ready to help those in need. In retirement, he cherished time spent pheasant hunting with friends and family, attending the College World Series with lifelong hometown buddies, and taking frequent cruises with his wife, Sheila. A respected member of Gallatin’s Sideview Fellowship Club, he found community and camaraderie close to home. Though he humbly claimed not to be especially intelligent, those who knew him marveled at his broad knowledge and well-read mind. His easy, unassuming manner allowed him to connect effortlessly with people from every background.

Above all, Tom took immense pride in his family. He adored being “Papi” to his grandson Tyler, delighted in caring for the family dogs, and never tired of supporting his son Chris.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Elizabeth Moberg, and his sister, Joanne VanLith.

Tom is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Sheila Moberg; his son, Christopher Moberg; his grandson, Tyler Thomas Moberg; his brothers, John Moberg (with his wife Candy) and William Moberg; as well as several cherished nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Safe Place for Animals (SPA), 905 Mallard Drive, Gallatin, TN 37066; a local no-kill shelter that reflected Tom’s deep love for animals. Donations may also be made online at safeplaceforanimals.com or by calling (615) 451-7342.

Tom leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and incredible memories that will be cherished by his family and friends forever. His spirit will continue to soar, just as he did in the skies he loved.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Gallatin, TN. Following this, Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. John Vianney Catholic Church at 1:30 PM with Father Richard Childress as celebrant. Burial with military graveside honors will take place at Crestview Memory Gardens.

Arrangements entrusted to Alexander Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 584 Nashville Pike, Gallatin. Online condolences can be left at www.AlexanderGallatin.com