Tom Albert Battle died Dec. 23, 2025, at the age of 77. He was born in Greensboro on March 18, 1948, to the late Mr. L. T. Battle, Sr. and the late Mrs. Virginia Terrell Battle.
He confessed his love for Jesus Christ at an early age and became a member of St. Mary African Methodist Episcopal Church (now known as Saint Mary Church in Horseshoe Bend) under the pastorate of the late Rev. Joe Lee Hamilton, Sr.
He worked at various organizations while consistently pursuing his enthusiasm for automotive work. Recognized as one of the leading mechanics in the Greensboro and Newbern areas, he was adept at diagnosing and repairing complex mechanical issues. His sister Janelle called him “MacGyver” for his resourcefulness. Notably, before the widespread adoption of push-button ignition systems and electric vehicles, Tom developed an early push-button car, though it was never patented. He provided valuable assistance to many clients, contributing significantly to cost savings in automotive repair services.
Tom’s beloved parents, Mr. L. T. Battle, Sr., and Mrs. Virginia Terrell Battle, both lifelong residents of Greensboro, Alabama, passed away before him. Their memory is cherished by all who knew and loved them. Tom’s two brothers, L. T. Battle, Jr., of Uniontown, Alabama, and Ned T. Battle of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, will also be forever cherished.
Tom leaves to cherish his memories four (4) children: two (2) sons and two (2) daughters, Christopher B. Tubbs and Tonetta Knox, both of Tuscaloosa, AL; Tomeka Battle, Phoenix, AZ; and Brandon Dill, Birmingham, AL.
He is also survived by six (6) sisters: Janelle Battle Wilson, Newbern, AL; Geneva Battle Miller, Greensboro, AL; Loretta Battle Fowlkes (Ralph), Newbern, AL; Dale Battle Mays (Sol), Bradenton, FL; Carolyn Rollins and Brenda Battle, both of Greensboro, AL; four (4) brothers: Jimmy Battle (Betty), Tuscaloosa, AL; Willie J. Battle (Dianne), Greensboro, AL; Steven Battle (Jennifer), Moundville, AL; and Frank Banks, Fort Wayne, IN.
He also leaves five (5) grandchildren: Tyler A. Knox; Jermilah Giles; Jaylen Giles; Jacorey Dill; and Nasheed Dill; one great-granddaughter, Zameriah Dill; and three notable nieces, Denise Whithurst, Erica Battle, and Shavonne Bryant, who provided exemplary care and attention to their uncle Tom during his time at Southland Nursing Home. Numerous nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and friends also remember him.
The family wishes to thank their dear sister, Dianne H. Battle, for her willingness to assist in arranging Tom’s move from Hale County Hospital in Greensboro, AL, to Southland Nursing Home in Marion, AL, and for her exceptional knowledge in many areas.
Services were held Jan. 2 at Washington and Paige Mortuary Chapel in Greensboro with Rev. Robert (Roy) Washington, assistant pastor of St. Mary Church, officiating.
