Thomas Carl Ardoline

Thomas Carl Ardoline (Lt. Col. Retired), 69, died Monday, September 8, 2025 at the VA Medical Center, Biloxi, surrounded by family.

Tommy was born in Belleville, IL and grew up in Biloxi. He was above all a devoted son, brother, uncle, and friend. He graduated from Notre Dame High School in 1973. He received a BS degree from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1977 and a MA from Ball State University in 1978. He then joined the US Air Force.

For the past 4 years, Tommy has resided at the VA Community Living Center. He was retired from the Air Force after 27 years of service, having been stationed as a Hospital Administrator in Biloxi twice, San Antonio, Del Rio, Miami, Italy, and the Philippines. He was instrumental in writing the TriCare for Life bill, and during Desert Storm in establishing a temporary hospital in England. He received the Air Force Commendation Medal with 3 bronze leaf clusters (OLCs), the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Air Force Overseas Short and Long Term Ribbons, the Air Force Training Ribbon, the Air Force Longevity Service Award with 1 silver OLC, the National Defense Service Medal with 1 bronze service star, the Joint Meritorious Unit Award, and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with 2 bronze OLCs.

From an early age, Tommy had an avid interest in cars (he knew every make and model), model cars (with many displayed at his home), boats, and model trains. He loved boating on the back bay, taking car rides anywhere, and going out to eat with anyone ready to go.

Tommy was preceded in death by his parents, Sam J. and Mary Louise Becherer Ardoline, and brother-in-law, Buddy Pullen (Peggy Ardoline Pullen).

He is survived by 3 sisters: Peggy Pullen of Marietta, GA, Nanette Burke (Dennis) of Biloxi, Marianne Sherman (John, III) of Biloxi. He was a beloved uncle to 1 niece, Emily Burke of Biloxi; 5 nephews, Scott and Brian Pullen (Elissa) of Georgia, Sam Burke (Sarah) of Biloxi, John Sherman IV (Adrianna) of San Antonio, and Nicholas Sherman (Tiffany) of Cibolo, TX. He is also survived by grand nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in Tommy’s name to Nativity BVM Cathedral, 870 Howard Avenue, Biloxi, MS 39530.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Nativity BVM Cathedral on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at 11:00 am. Friends may visit from 10:00 am until Mass time. Interment will follow at Biloxi National Cemetery.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Thomas Ardoline.