Thomas “TL” Burrows, 86, of Timmonsville, SC, entered into the presence of his Savior on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, hearing the words every faithful servant longs to hear: “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Though his earthly journey has ended, his family finds peace in knowing that he stepped into eternity with Jesus Christ.

Born to the late Thomas Edward “Ned” Burrows and Ida Mae McKnight Burrows, TL lived a life marked by quiet strength, unwavering devotion, and a steadfast faith in God. He was the kind of man whose love was often shown more through his actions— through the things he built, the sacrifices he made, and the way he faithfully showed up for the people he loved.

TL proudly served his country in the United States Navy as a Landing Signal Operator aboard the USS Coral Sea. He carried the honor of that service throughout his life, walking with humility, discipline, and deep respect for others.

He was first married to Patsy Watford, and together they welcomed two children, Tommy and Vicky. Later, God blessed him with a beautiful love and companionship in his marriage to Ruth Deese Burrows.

For over 40 years, TL worked faithfully at Stone Container, providing for his family through hard work and perseverance. He was a man who believed in earning an honest living and doing things the right way. Outside of work, he was known by many as the man who could fix anything. Whether it was a car, a motor, or something someone else had given up on, TL always seemed to find a way to bring it back to life.

But above all else, TL treasured his family. Some of the most cherished memories were made at Santee, where days were spent fishing, skiing, tubing, laughing, and simply being together. To his children and grandchildren, he was more than a father and grandfather — he was safety, wisdom, strength, and home. His presence brought comfort, his hands brought provision, and his life taught lessons that words alone never could.

TL deeply loved his church and remained a faithful member of Palmetto Street Church of God for over 30 years. His faith was not something he spoke about only on Sundays; it was woven into the way he lived every day. He believed in God’s goodness, trusted in His promises, and now rests in the eternal peace he so faithfully believed in.

Left to carry on his legacy are his beloved daughter, Vicky Burrows Richardson and her husband Gary; his cherished grandchildren, Caleb Burrows, Rachel Burrows, Samuel Richardson, Tom Burrows, Stormy Burrows, Jamison Burrows, and Olivia Burrows; and his precious great-grandchildren, Londyn, Kyro, Jayde, Sophia, and Arayah, who brought immeasurable joy and light to his later years.

He had many nieces and nephews that he loved and helped out through out the years. 

T.L. had some loyal friends that meant a lot to him, Tammy Ham, Lawrence Bryant, G.C. Hatchell, the late Steve Evans, and his childhood and lifelong best friend, Russell Turner. 

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ruth Deese Burrows; his son, Tommy Burrows; and his brothers, W.E. Burrows and Jimmy Burrows.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Agape’ Hospice, especially Nurse Kimberly Flowers, for her dedication, compassion, and genuine loving care shown to TL and his family during this difficult time. Special thanks and appreciation are also extended to CNA Latazma McKithen, Lafay West, Jane Warren, Karen Freeman, Mackenzie Miller and granddaughter, Rachel Burrows for their kindness, support, and assistance in TL’s care. But most of all to his dedicated grandson Caleb, who spent years of lovingly caring for his Papa while working and going to school.

TL’s legacy lives on in every life he touched, every lesson he taught, and every memory his family will hold close until they meet again. His family takes comfort in knowing that this is not goodbye forever, but only a temporary separation until that beautiful day when they are reunited again in the presence of the Lord.

A funeral service to honor his life will be held 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 16, 2026, in the chapel of Layton-Anderson Funeral Home with entombment following in the Florence Memorial Gardens Mausoleum. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.