Zelma Elizabeth Tomlinson, 87
November 5, 1938 – February 8, 2026
Zelma Elizabeth Tomlinson, known as Debbie to many and lovingly called “Mamaw” by those who knew her best, passed away on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at Ripley Nursing Home. She leaves behind a legacy marked by quiet strength, steadfast faith, and a love that was unconditional and unwavering.
Funeral services honoring Mrs. Debbie’s well-lived life will be held at 1 PM on Friday, February 13, 2026, in the Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral Home, with visitation from 11 AM until the time of service. Burial will follow in Providence Baptist Church Cemetery in Tiplersville, Mississippi. There will be no graveside service.
Born November 5, 1938, in Sardis, Tennessee, she was the daughter of the late James Homer and Tencie Lara Stanfill Montgomery. She received her education through the Lexington, Tennessee Public School System and on February 12, 1959, married the love of her life, William Owen Tomlinson, who preceded her in death. Together, they built a home filled with love, hard work, and devotion, raising their family with strong values and steady guidance.
Mrs. Debbie devoted many years of her life to her work as a shoe sole inspector with Biltrite, McGregor, and Blue Bell, where she was known for her dedication and strong work ethic before retiring. A faithful Christian, Mamaw found her greatest joy in the simple things—sugar toast and cocoa, warm homemade biscuits, her beloved chicken and dumplings, and unhurried moments shared with family.
Her family was her greatest treasure. She loved her brothers and sisters deeply and shared with them a bond of loyalty, laughter, and lifelong devotion. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the light of her life, and she loved them with a gentle, steady affection that made each of them feel safe, cherished, and deeply known.
A praying woman to her core, her faith guided her through every season of life. Though she faced many hardships, she carried herself with remarkable grace, never speaking a harsh word and always choosing kindness. Her strength was quiet, her compassion deep, and her heart always open.
Zelma Elizabeth Tomlinson will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her unwavering love for family, and a life that beautifully reflected faith, humility, and grace. Her legacy lives on through the lives she touched and the love she so freely gave.
Those left to cherish Mamaw’s memory include her four sons, Ben Tomlinson (Tammy), Donnie Tomlinson (Mary Anne), Mark Tomlinson (Jennifer), and Jim Tomlinson (Dana), ten grandchildren, Carrie Stevenson (Eric), Drew Tomlinson, Sara Anderson (Jesse), Katie Gaillard (Cruz), Ashley Bridges (Cody), Chase Tomlinson, Abby Tomlinson, Briggs Tomlinson, Annabelle Tomlinson, and Reagan Tomlinson, and seven great grandchildren, Cole, Lucy Adams, Willow, Carly, J. B., Ginny, and Jett, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
In addition to her husband, and parents, she was also preceded in death by one daughter, Linda Eubanks, two grandchildren, David, and Tony Eubanks, two sisters, Jewel Power and Edna Moore, and three brothers, G. W. Montgomery, Charles Montgomery, and Robert Montgomery.
Ripley Funeral Home invites you to share memories with Mrs. Debbie’s family.
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
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Visitation
Friday
February 13, 2026
11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral
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Funeral Service
Friday
February 13, 2026
1:00 PM
Heritage Chapel of Ripley Funeral
