Thomas Edward Stapleton, Jr. "Tommy"
Beloved Son, Brother, and Best Friend
1988-2025

Born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Tommy had osteogenesis imperfecta, otherwise known as brittle bones disease. Tommy faced challenges most could never imagine. From the very beginning, Tommy defied the odds. Born with 26 broken bones, doctors said he wouldn't survive past infancy, but in true Tommy fashion, he had other plans. He lived not just a life, but a legacy, blessing us with 36 unforgettable years. He did not let his disease define him. He lived with a spirit so big, bright, and positive that it lifted everyone around him. His life wasn't about limitations, it was about living fully and joyfully.

Tommy did more than light up a room, he was the room - we were just lucky to be in it.
Tommy graduated from Jenks High School in 2008. He was proud to be a Jenks lifer-a true Trojan. He wore his school spirit like a badge of honor and was honored to be a Jenks Superfan, cheering loud in the stands and bringing unmatched energy to every game. Most of his classmates remember him as being the one who would give them a thrill ride on the back of his wheelchair while popping wheelies.

To know him was to love him-and to laugh with him. He never met a stranger, only future friends. He made everyone feel like they belonged. Comfortable. Seen. Loved. And unforgettable.

He was the life of every gathering and the undisputed champion of pool nights with friends-calling his shots and backing them up with a grin. He never missed a WrestleMania, a Publishers Clearing House entry, or a chance to cheer for his Dallas Cowboys, St. Louis Cardinals, and OKC Thunder.

If Tommy were here today, he would want to thank all those people that helped him not just deal with his condition, but to rise above it. As Matthew 25:40 said, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me".

There are so many hearts mourning the loss of his presence-his jokes, his joy, his voice, his light, his love. The world feels quieter without him, but so much richer because he was here.

His recent baptism was a beautiful testament to the man he was-one who sought truth, grace, and a deeper connection with God. It brought peace to his heart and joy to those who witnessed his spiritual journey.

He leaves behind his family who adored him, friends who were lucky to call him theirs, and a legacy of laughter, love, and unforgettable memories. This world is dimmer without his light.

Tommy is survived by his parents Tom and Cricket Stapleton, his brother David and sister-in-law Becca, his sister Meghan and brother-in-law Iain, his sister Katie and brother-in-law Tyler, his brother Chris, as well as his nieces and nephews Makenzie, Maysen, Luke, and Ryan.

Rest easy, Tommy. You were one of a kind and Heaven just got a whole lot funnier.

The family will greet friends 6 pm-8 pm, Tuesday, July 8, 2025, Moore's Southlawn Chapel, 9350 East 51st Street, Tulsa, Oklahoma. A celebration of Tommy's life will be 2 pm, Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at Moore's Southlawn.

In lieu of flowers friends my donate to the:
Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation
656 Quince Orchard Road, Ste 650
Gaithersburg, MD 20878-0007