Tommie Joe Rankin was born on December 13, 1930 in Italy, Tx to the parents of Theo and Lucile Rankin. He graduated from Stafford High School and shortly thereafter made the decision to serve his country by joining the United States Armed Forces, were he was honorably discharged on February 10, 1960. He retired from TXU Electric in 1992.

He was United in marriage to Bennie Rankin n April 19, 1988after meeting in 1981. The awaiting of his arrival Theo and Lucille Rankin (Parents) Ulysses Rankin (Brother), Milton Rankin Sr. "Bubba" (Brother), Joe Dennis Lovely (son), Juanita Gunter (Daughter) and Ricky Jackson (Grandson).

He leaves to cherish his memories Bennie Rankin, (wife), Calvin Rankin, Edwin Gerstel Anderson (Alma), Avery Lovely (Ramona), Bobby Lovely and Lance Lovely (Sons) Ruthie Hutchison (Kevin) and Teneko Lovely (daughters), Nina F Pennington and Mary L. Sneed-Watley (Sisters), A special son Kevin Hutchinson and Special nephew Clifford Sneed (Bubba). With a host of Grandchildren, Great Grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends.