Tomi Nelms

Tomi Nelms entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and quiet grace.

Tomi was born on July 4, 1945, in Oglethorpe County, Georgia, to the late Thomas Eugene and Lucille Francis Nelms. It was there, in the heart of her home county, that Tomi met the man she would marry — a Navy man whose service carried their family across the world, from the shores of Virginia Beach to the island of Cuba. Through every new place they called home, Tomi brought warmth, stability, and her unshakable spirit. In time, she returned to the land she loved best — Oglethorpe County — to raise her family, and she made her final, cherished home in Perry, Georgia, thirteen years ago.

Tomi devoted much of her life to the service of others. As a director at Action Inc., a Community Action Partnership Agency, she worked tirelessly to uplift those around her and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who needed it most. Her compassion was practical and steadfast — she showed up, year after year, for her community.

Later in life, Tomi channeled her joy into “Flowers in the Country,” the floral business she proudly owned and operated in her hometown of Crawford, Georgia. More than a livelihood, it was an expression of who she truly was — a woman with a deep and abiding love of the natural world. She possessed a remarkable knowledge of plants, trees, and flowers, and her garden was a living testament to that passion.

When she wasn’t caring for others or tending her garden, Tomi could be found on the dance floor, enjoying the rhythm and community of line dancing. But her greatest joy, above all else, was time spent with her family.

She will be remembered for her patience, independence, and quiet strength — for the way she led by example and loved without condition. A woman of deep wisdom, Tomi had a gift for lifting others with the right words at the right moment. One saying, passed down from her own mother, stayed with her throughout her life and reflected the way she moved through the world: “When you think you’re having a bad day, just look over your shoulder — someone’s day may be worse.” Tomi’s lifelong devotion to her family and community leaves a lasting impression on the hearts and minds of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

In addition to her parents, Tomi was preceded in death by her beloved siblings, Glenda Stewart (Cole) and Bill Nelms.

Her memory will forever be treasured by her children, Edward Love Bulger III (Deanne) of Dewey Rose, GA, Amanda Leigh Bulger of Warner Robins, GA, Tom Bulger (Paula) of Fort Valley, GA, and Merry Beth Raymond (Rex) of Sarasota, FL; her grandchildren, Madison Nicole Bulger, Jessie Noah Bulger, Aleia Rose Bulger, Alexa Milazzo (Michael), Ashton Hammill (Tiffany), Emma Kate Bulger, Hudson Bulger, Trey Raymond, and Mollie Raymond; her great-grandchildren, Weston Martin, Maelynn Martin, Elaina Milazzo, Sienna Milazzo, and Asher Hammill; and her siblings, Martha Ann Coile and Lucy Lamar; as well as numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

The family will hold a memorial service in Tomi’s honor at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully suggests memorial donations be made in Tomi’s memory to the Arbor Day Foundation — a fitting tribute to a woman who found beauty and meaning in every living thing.

McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.