THOMAS EUGENE BOCHETTE SR.

Thomas Eugene “Tom” Bochette Sr., 82, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026. He leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories, a family who loved him dearly and a legacy of faith, love and devotion that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

Born on March 13, 1944, Tom was the beloved son of the late Wilbur O’Neal Bochette and Jessie Mae Dixon Bochette. Throughout his life, he found his greatest happiness in life’s simplest pleasures – spending time with those he loved, enjoying a peaceful day of fishing and cheering on his beloved South Carolina Gamecocks.

Tom was a faithful member and deacon of Southside Baptist Church, where he demonstrated his devotion to God and his church family. He was also a charter member of Carolina Anglers Fishing Club, reflecting his lifelong passion for fishing and the friendships and fellowship it brought into his life. He retired from University of South Carolina Sumter.

He is survived by his loving children, Laura Cook (Rick) of Great Falls, Montana, Thomas Bochette Jr. of Augusta, Georgia, and Bryan Bochette (Wendy) of Manning, South Carolina; eight grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Brenda Nunn (Dean) of Aiken, South Carolina, and brother, Laverne Bochette (Linda) of Sumter, South Carolina, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and loved ones.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Deidre Tufflemire Bochette; his brothers, Lewis Edward Bochette and William O’Neal Bochette; his sister, Sadie Woodruff; and a granddaughter, Madeline Nicole Bochette.

Although his earthly journey has come to an end, the love Tom shared and the memories he created will never fade. His family finds comfort in knowing that the faith he carried throughout his life has led him to his eternal home, where there is no more pain or sorrow, only everlasting peace. The fishing lines may be still, and his seat may be empty, but the love he left behind will remain forever.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, Nov. 9, 2026, in the Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home chapel with the Rev. Tommy Atkinson and the Rev. Jimmy Holley officiating. Burial will be in Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 p.m. Monday at Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home.
Memorials may be made to Southside Baptist Church, 1116 Manning Rd., Sumter, SC 29150, or to a charity of one’s choice.

On behalf of Tom’s family, we wish to express our deepest love and heartfelt appreciation to Amedisys and Agape Hospice, along with Lillian Bradley and Tammy Grimsley, for the extraordinary compassion, kindness and care they provided throughout the last two years of his life. Your unwavering dedication brought comfort not only to Tom, but also to the family who loved him so dearly. The tenderness and dignity with which you cared for him will never be forgotten, and our family will forever be grateful.

Elmore-Cannon-Stephens Funeral Home and Crematorium of Sumter is in charge of the arrangements.