Thomas Tyrone Only was born on September 20, 1942, in Lake Park, Georgia to Deacon Boston Sr. and Mother Ada Mae Only.  He came to Christ and he was baptized at an early age and was a member of Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church in Jasper, Florida. He attended J.R.E. Lee High School, where he excelled as an athlete in football and basketball, ultimately earning  "All Conference" honors in both divisions.  He graduated in 1961, and joined in Holy Matrimony, Lillar Grant (his devoted wife of 60 years).  He worked various positions and learned the unique skill of roofing before entering the United States Army.  As a member of 101st Airborne Division he achieved the rank of Private First Class before retiring after several years of distinguished service.

In 1975, he settled in Orlando, Florida where he became a firefighter with Pine Castle Fire Department.  This agency would later merge with the Orange County Fire Rescue Department.  He was an Engineer and faithful public servant.  He was a mentor to young Firefighters throughout his 29-year career.  He also became a miscellaneous contractor.

Thomas was a generous person with a kind heart.  He was always willing to help those in need. For eight years, he was the sponsor of the Orlando Police Department's, Parramore Heritage Christmas Party where children would receive a traditional Christmas, have a visit with Santa and receive a Christmas gift.  He was a true and humble servant of the Lord.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Boston Sr. and Mother Ada Mae Only, Brothers: Raymond, Nathaniel, Ernest, Warren, Boston Jr. Sisters: Louise, Marie, Son: Tyrone, Daughter-in-law: Renita

As Thomas leaves his early life, his memories will live on through his wife, Lillar Only, Sister: Deloria (Georgia), Brother: Ronald (Andrea) Washington. Daughters: Terry, Sharon, and Monica (Orlando), Wanda (Elijah) Daytona, Kimberly (Miami), Daphne (Wisconsin), Sons: Timothy (North Carolina), Kevin (Natalie) Ocoee, Darrell (Orlando), Jason (Orlando);  Sister-in-Laws: Ida Mae (BJ) Winter Garden, Dorothy (Ben) Jasper.  A host of loving grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.