Thomas Lee Core

Dec. 12, 1963 - Oct. 13, 2025

Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Thomas Lee Core passed away peacefully at his home Oct. 13, 2025. Tom is survived by his devoted wife of 38 years, seven months, and 13 days, Jerrie Core; his children JT Core (Dr. Alysa Core) and Marrissa Whitford (Major Tyler Whitford); and his grandchildren Bennett (3), Rae (2), Presley (2), and Stella (13 days). He also leaves behind his three siblings and their spouses, Susan and Troy Ford, Jim and Sheri Core, and Steve and Nancy Core. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Ginny Core.

Born Dec. 12, 1963, Tom grew up in Greybull, Wyo. He graduated from Greybull High School in 1982. His journey of military service began in 1981 when he enlisted in the Wyoming Army National Guard, attending basic training and AIT between his junior and senior year of high school. He earned his Bachelor of Science in criminal justice from the University of Wyoming in 1986 and reported to Fort Sill, Okla., for his first duty assignment in January 1987. 

Tom served with distinction for 26 years in the United States Army, retiring in 2007. His career took him across the globe, with assignments at Fort Sill, Okla.; multiple locations in Germany; the National Training Center as an Observer Controller; Operation Iraqi Freedom; and finally Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, as a combat developer. His military accolades included the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal (5th Oak Leaf Cluster), Army Commendation Medal (5th OLC), Army Achievement Medal (5th OLC), Armed Forces Services Medal, Overseas Medal, and Army Service Ribbon. He was a proud graduate of the Field Artillery Officer Basic and Advanced Courses, CAS3, and the Command and General Staff Officers College. Following his military retirement, Tom continued his legacy of service at General Dynamics Mission Systems, where he rose to become director of marketing to the U.S. Army, retiring from GDMS in 2018.

Tom was a man who found joy in hunting with family and friends, golfing, swimming with his grandchildren, and playing a spirited game of “Oh Hell” after dinner with friends. He savored a good cigar on the patio of American Legion Post 12, surrounded by his brothers and sisters in arms. A lifelong football and baseball fan – Tom celebrated wins from his favorite teams – University of Wyoming, Kansas State University, North Dakota State University, and the Kansas City Chiefs – just days before his passing.

Tom’s legacy is one of mentorship, leadership, and unwavering dedication. He inspired those around him – whether in youth sports, among veterans, or in everyday life – to strive for excellence and live with purpose. The family invites all who knew Tom to raise a glass in his honor and share stories that live in “The Gray Area” – where truth and legend meet. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to your local American Legion in Tom’s memory.