Sheriff Thomas Neil "Tom" Maddox, Sr.

Sheriff Thomas Neil "Tom" Maddox, Sr., of Pineland, Texas, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at his residence. He was born on September 11, 1949, in Henderson, Texas, to Oscar McNeil Maddox and Mildred Walling Maddox.  

A dedicated public servant, Tom devoted his life to law enforcement in the State of Texas. He served as a Texas Department of Public Safety officer for 30 years, earning the rank of Corporal before retiring. In 2001, he was elected Sheriff of Sabine County and faithfully held the position for over 24 years until his passing. His leadership extended beyond Sabine County as he served two terms as President of the Sheriff's Association of Texas, where he tirelessly advocated for border safety and law enforcement initiatives.  

Committed to his community, Tom established the DARE program in Sabine County Schools to promote decision-making skills for children's health and safety. He was an active member of the Pineland Merchant Team during Pineland Day events and was honored as Citizen of the Year for his dedication. He also served with the Pineland Volunteer Fire Department and the Sabine County Go Texas Cook-Off Team. A passionate coach, he mentored young athletes in Little League Baseball and girls' softball across Pineland, San Augustine, and Nacogdoches.  

Tom was a longtime member of Hemphill Church of Christ and a proud member of Redland Masonic Lodge #3 in San Augustine, as well as the Shriners and Scottish Rite.   He served on the West Sabine School Board and also in the Pineland Service Club.  When not serving his community, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family.  

He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Maddox; his parents; his brother, Eric Maddox; and his sister, Gloria Jean Howeth.  

He is survived by his son, Thomas Neil Maddox, Jr., and companion, Casey Ashimine, of Kemah; daughters, Carmen Willis and husband, Brad, of Cushing and Cindy Burns and husband, Joey, of Joaquin; companion Sue Bohannon of Hemphill; brother, Glen Maddox and wife, Cindy of Nacogdoches; sister, Elesa Detting of Abilene; grandchildren, Peyton Maddox, Drake Willis, Cade Willis, Chloe Garcia, Maisie Adkison, and Marissa Gortney; and great-grandchildren Declan, Easton, with Raylee on her way.  

Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at West Sabine High School Gymnasium, 103 Sloan Street, Pineland, Texas.  Bro. Mark Sloan will officiate under the direction of Starr Funeral Home with the Texas Department of Public Safety Honor Guard serving as pallbearers

The State of Texas and Sabine County is a better place because of Sheriff Tom Maddox’s unwavering dedication. His leadership and determination will be deeply missed. Above all else, Tom was a friend to everyone.  

Memories and condolences may be shared at starrfuneralhome.com.