Thomas Bumpass' Obituary
Thomas “Tee” Bumpass, a veteran of Chattanooga, TN., was born on February 23, 1949, to the late Essie Belle Williams Bumpass and Butler Bumpass in Savannah, TN. He was a graduate of Howard High School, class of 1967. He passed away April 29, 2026, in a local hospital at the age of 77.
Thomas was a TN-based multi-instrumentalist, singer, and songwriter known for R&B, soul and funk music. He started as a trumpeter, touring with Dyke & The Blazers at age 17 before playing on Chattanooga historic “Big9” (M.L. King Boulevard). He was a Motown producer for seven years, as well as a songwriter and artist at Motown Records. As a former Motown producer and musician, he spent time in Los Angeles with the group Ozone and backing artists such as Billy Preston, Teena Marie, the DeBarge Family, and Sammy Davis Jr. Worked for 7 years as a producer, songwriter, and artist at Motown Records. He was proficient in trumpet, keyboards, and vocals. Throughout his music storied life, he has played around the world.
In 2018 he married the love of his life, Erika Hawkins- Bumpass of Chattanooga, Tennessee whom he was happily married until his transition home. In 2000 Thomas gave his life to Christ and has been a member of Bible Way Ministries since then and led the Praise Team. He led the Tee Bumpass Band and played with local groups including The El Continental Band, The Malemen, Skin Deep, and Convertabull. Thomas was featured in the Chattanooga Times Free Press for his contributions to the local music scene.
He is survived by his loving wife, Erika Hawkins- Bumpass; son, Thomas Jerrod (Lorita) Bumpass and stepson, Derrick Norris of Chattanooga, TN.; sisters, Rosie Jean Bumpass of Spring Hill, TN. and Sheryl Bumpass (Balus Smith) of Chattanooga, TN.; one remaining brother, Frank (Patty) Bumpass; two grandchildren, Olivia Bumpass and William Davis; two great-grandchildren, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Thomas will lie-in-state on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. in the Chapel with Pastor Walter Owens, Jr. as the Eulogist. Burial will be on Monday, May 18, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Chattanooga Memorial Park.
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