Page created by: Terrin Trantham

Tommy G. Trantham, 79, of Little Rock, AR, passed away peacefully on January 12, surrounded by his loving family. Tommy was first diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in 2010 and fought with great courage and dignity against it for fifteen years. He was born August 12, 1945, in Camden, AR, to James Alexander Trantham and Willa Marie Greer Trantham, Tommy lived a life defined by extraordinary accomplishments, deep compassion and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. He was an accomplished athlete, visionary business leader, devoted husband and cherished patriarch whose legacy will endure through generations.

Tommy’s remarkable journey began as a standout athlete at Little Rock Central High School. He went on to achieve national recognition at the University of Arkansas, where he was a three-time All-Southwest Conference defensive back from 1965 to 1967, Scholastic All-American and President of his senior class. As a Razorback, Tommy became a key player in one of the program’s most celebrated eras. In 1965, his iconic 77-yard fumble recovery against the No. 1-ranked Texas Longhorns helped secure a historic victory, propelling Arkansas to the top of the national rankings for the first time. With 300 career interception return yards, a record that remains unbroken.

After college, Tommy played professionally for the Arkansas Diamonds in the Continental Football League before transitioning to coaching. As an assistant coach for Hot Springs High School, he helped lead the team to an undefeated state championship season in 1970, inspiring countless young athletes with his leadership, dedication, and mentorship.

Tommy’s drive for excellence extended beyond the football field into the business world. After serving as president of Northwest Savings and Loan in Northwest Arkansas, Tommy opened his own bank in Bedford, Texas. There, he revolutionized the banking industry by introducing the concept of free checking accounts—an innovative idea that made banking more accessible to the public. Under his leadership, the bank became the number one savings and loan in the state of Texas, a testament to his vision and commitment to serving the community.

He served as Marketing Director of The Federal Home Loan Banks and President of several other banks spanning across Arkansas and Texas.

In 1987, Tommy returned to Little Rock to be near his family. Shortly after, he was called upon to lead Madison Guarantee Savings, where he played a significant role in its operations and continued to influence the local banking landscape.

Later, Tommy found new purpose as the owner/operator of Crystal Springs Marina on the southside of Lake Ouachita, where he fostered a beloved recreational destination for families and adventurers. An avid scuba diver and outdoor enthusiast, Tommy’s love for nature and adventure inspired others to embrace the joys of life and the beauty of the natural world.

Tommy was inducted into the Arkansas Softball Hall of Fame as well as the University of Arkansas Sports Hall of Honor, an accolade that celebrated not only his athletic achievements but also his enduring character, work ethic and contributions to the community.

At the core of Tommy’s life was his profound love for his family. He was preceded in death by his three sisters, Geneva Perry, Betty Jo Campbell, Maureen Smith and the love of his life, Nancy Gene Strunk Trantham. Tommy and Nancy shared a remarkable love story, a deep and abiding partnership built on mutual respect, faith, and devotion. Together, they built a family founded on love and resilience, a legacy that continues to guide their children and grandchildren. Tommy often expressed that Nancy was his greatest blessing and their love will forever remain a source of inspiration to all who knew them.

Tommy is survived by his children Angela Trantham and Terri Trantham, granddaughter Alexi Alan Janske and grandson Whitten Janske, siblings James Trantham (Liz), Jerry Trantham, Shirley Sedder, Pat Hammock (Curtis), Sandra Trantham, Judy Milam (Gary), friends, teammates and colleagues whose lives were touched by his generosity, wisdom and kindness. His legacy of love, faith and achievement will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.