Thomas "Scooch" Scott, a lifelong resident of Trenton and one of Gilchrist County's most beloved citizens, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2026, at Haven Hospice in Chiefland. He was 92 years old.

Born on May 19, 1934, in Trenton, Florida, Scooch spent his entire life serving the community he loved. A true local legend, he dedicated himself to his country, his family, his students, and his neighbors, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to influence Gilchrist County for generations to come.

In 1957, Scooch answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army. He completed basic training in Baltimore before being stationed in Hawaii. Following his military service, he returned home to Trenton where he worked as a mechanic for Colson Chevrolet and later for McAllister’s Tractors.

His greatest professional calling, however, came in education. Scooch became the mechanics teacher at Trenton High School, where he spent 27 years teaching and mentoring countless young men and women. He often joked that it took him 39 years to get out of Trenton schools—12 years as a student and 27 years as a teacher. Through his patience, wisdom, and practical knowledge, he helped shape the lives of generations of students who still remember him fondly today.

Scooch's commitment to public service extended far beyond the classroom. He proudly served as a volunteer firefighter with the Gilchrist County Fire Department and later as a deputy with the Gilchrist County Sheriff's Office. He eventually became the courthouse bailiff, where his friendly demeanor, quick wit, and steady presence made him a familiar and respected figure throughout the county.

He was also a devoted member of the Masonic brotherhood for many years. Scooch was a proud Freemason and spent decades as a member of William T. Carlton Lodge No. 46 in Trenton. After the lodge was lost to fire, he later continued his Masonic journey with Brown Masonic Lodge No. 51 in Chiefland, remaining active and dedicated throughout his life.

Above all else, Scooch was devoted to his wife. He shared 68 wonderful years of marriage with the love of his life, Lois, until her passing in 2022. Together they built a life rooted in faith, love, and service. They were faithful members of Pine Grove Baptist Church and cherished the friendships and fellowship they found there.

Scooch never met a stranger. He was known throughout the community for his kindness, sense of humor, and gift for conversation. He had a joke ready for every occasion and a unique way of looking at life. If someone asked what he was doing when he was taking a nap, he would say he was "pressing sheets." And if asked how he was feeling, his trademark response was, "With both hands." His quick wit and infectious smile brightened the days of everyone fortunate enough to know him.

An outdoorsman at heart, Scooch loved hunting and fishing and treasured the time spent with family and friends enjoying the natural beauty of North Florida. He was a people person through and through, always willing to lend a helping hand, share a story, or offer encouragement.

To say that Scooch was a pillar of the community would be an understatement. Through his service in the military, education, law enforcement, firefighting, Masonic brotherhood, church, and countless acts of kindness, he helped shape the character of Gilchrist County itself. The community we know today is better because of people like Scooch—men who quietly dedicated their lives to serving others without expecting anything in return.

He leaves behind a grateful family, countless former students, friends, neighbors, and an entire community that was blessed by his presence. While his passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, his legacy will live on in the lives he touched and the example he set.

Scooch is preceded in death by his wife, Lois; his mother Katie Mae Strawser; his grandparents, Bud and Cora Polk; and sister-in-law, Lottie Barrington.

He is survived by his sister, Karen Folks; a large extended family of cousins; and his brother and sisters in laws, Mae Keeling, Nina Leak, Lavern Hoover and Walt Seiler.

A funeral service to honor Scooch will be held on Monday, June 8, 2026, at Pine Grove Baptist Church, at 11:00 AM. A visitation the night before on Sunday, June 7, 2026, from 6-8 PM will be held at Watson-Milton Funeral Home. Honors for his military service, his dedication to the Masonic brotherhood, as well as his time served with both the Gilchrist County Fire Rescue and Sheriff’s office will be conducted. Scooch will be laid to rest immediately following the service at Trenton Cemetery. The staff at Watson-Milton Funeral Home have loved and adored Scooch for many years, and we are honored to assist his family during this time. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Watson-Milton Funeral Home. www.WatsonMilton.com (352) 463-8888

A life well lived. A servant's heart. A true Gilchrist County legend.

Thomas "Scooch" Scott will be deeply missed and forever remembered.