Thomas Alfred “Tommy” Neumann (Beta Sigma) 1948-2020

Thomas Alfred “Tommy” Neumann, 72, of Houston, Texas passed away on March 2, 2020.

He was born February 17, 1948, in Corpus Christi, Texas and was adopted by his loving parents, Alfred and Irene Neumann just days after his birth.

He grew up in Alice, Texas and graduated from William Adams High School in 1966. He was three years old when he met his future wife Barbara in Sunday School. In 1971, Tommy and Barbara were married in Alice.

Tommy began his college career at Delmar College in Corpus Christi. He decided to move to Houston and attend the University of Houston. During his studies, he was able to earn a Bachelor of Music in 1971 and continued his education by earning a Master of Education in 1973. In 1969, while attending the music school, he became a member of Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity. He also spent time working in the Cash Control department at Astroworld. Upon his graduation, Tommy started his professional career with SBISD.

In 1976, he and Barbara welcomed their first daughter, Stephanie into the world and shortly thereafter, in 1979, their son, David.

Tommy remained a strong music advocate and educator in SBISD for a total of 41 years. He loved standing on a podium conducting young minds and humming along to the songs they played. He also loved being the “Voice of the SBISD Halftime Shows” showcasing the “Pride of Spring Branch Marching Bands”. After retiring in 2015, Tommy continued to work as a substitute in music, art and health fitness classes until his very last day.

Tommy joined Boy Scouts in 1956 and worked his way through many ranks and merit badges, attended National and World Jamborees, and earned the coveted Eagle Award on November 17, 1965. Once David was old enough to be in scouting, he joined Pack 677 at Holy Cross Lutheran Church. Tommy became the Cubmaster from 1987 until 1990.

The Neumann Family was awarded the Mustang District Family Award in 1990. After David was old enough to join Boy Scouts, he transferred to Troop 852 at Terrace United Methodist Church. He served in various roles in the troop as well as Scout Master from 2008 until March 2, 2020. He enjoyed his time working with one of his best friend’s, Howard Huey, and was thrilled that his grandson, Tristan, had joined the Troop. He was looking forward to Mitchell joining within the next few months as well and attending the New Camp Strake Summer Camp.
Tommy was Wood Badge Trained and a trainer. He earned the Silver Beaver award as well as numerous other prestigious awards presented through Scouting. On campouts, Tommy was known for his award-winning cast iron, Dutch oven desserts and Thanksgiving Feasts.

His troop also supported and provided youth leadership at various council and district events including food drives, scout fairs and district Camporees. He took pride in watching young men gain self-confidence and mature into strong leaders. Tommy lived the 12 points of the Scout Oath and Law.

Tommy is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Barbara, his daughter, Stephanie (Shawn) Walton, and son, David Neumann. He will also be greatly missed by his four grandchildren, Tristan and Mitchell Walton (Shawn and Stephanie), Evan and Reese Neumann (David), his two nephews, Gary Lynn DeReese, Jr (Janice), Dylan Ross DeReese (Lisa), niece Molly Moffitt (Sam) and many other family and friends.

Pall Bearers include Howard Huey, Bill Stewart, Todd Walstead, David Moore, Rick Morales, and Michel Beck.
Visitation will be Saturday March 7 from 12:30-2:00pm with Funeral Services immediately following at Holy Cross Lutheran Church. 7901 Westview, Houston Texas 77055
Memorial Contributions can be made to Holy Cross Lutheran Church or the Tommy Neumann Memorial Scholarship Fund at Spring Branch Education Foundation, 955 Campbell Road Houston Texas 77024

Posted in In Memoriam.