Tommy and Susan were married in 1971 the same year Tommy earned his BS in Agricultural Science from Auburn University. Together they farmed full time for the first 13 years of their marriage.  In 1985 Tommy began his career with the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service.  He received his M.Ed. in Vocational and Adult Education from Auburn University in 1990. Over the span of his nearly 40 year Extension career Tommy fulfilled a number roles in 4-H, agriculture and forestry, from Assistant County Agent in Clay County to Extension Coordinator in Tallapoosa County. 

Tommy’s involvement with 4-H Forestry began as a coach in 1986.   Over the years Tommy brought four Alabama forestry teams to Jackson’s Mill.    The 1991 Alabama Team, under Tommy’s leadership, earned first place.  In 1993 the team was in need of a female chaperone, and Susan volunteered to fill the role.  The 1993 team placed 3^rd overall at the invitational.  Tommy began serving on the Invitational Committee in 1995.  He served until 2014 in a number of roles including treasurer, web site manager, and leader of the compass and pacing section.  Tommy was always willing to step into any role that was needed and did so in a positive, professional manner.

Susan’s role with the Invitational continued throughout Tommy’s tenure on the committee.  She was always willing to serve in any way she was needed.  She was always present when the teams arrived, greeted them and made sure they received a properly fitted Invitational t-shirt and hardhat.  She was always available to make runs to local stores to pick up whatever was needed.  Susan always made sure there was plenty of food and snacks for team members at the evening events and for committee members when they were grading papers and participating in evening planning sessions.  She also did much behind the scenes work including grading, entering scores, and printing certificates. 

Susan and Tommy were inseparable.  Each year they made the long trek to the invitational with their camper and Jack Russel terriers in tow.  Together they served and inspired; their strong faith was ever-present even when battling severe illness.  They always set a positive example for all to follow.  Susan’s long and courageous battle with cancer ended on October 22, 2015 but her spirit lives on with those of us who knew her and her great contributions to us are memorialized with this award.  Following retirement, Tommy started his own business, Futral Outdoors Services, helping landowners achieve their diverse land management needs.