01/15/2026
Thomas Quitman Brame, Jr., 71, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2026 surrounded by his family.
Thomas was the son of Tom Q. and Mary Virginia Brame and was raised in Bay Springs, Mississippi; a place that shaped his character and to which he remained deeply connected throughout his life. He was a graduate of Bay Springs High School, Mississippi College, and the University of Mississippi School of Law.
Thomas was a devoted man of faith who cherished his church and his Savior. He was baptized at an early age at Bay Springs Baptist Church and remained an active member there for more than forty years, serving in many capacities. After moving to Laurel, he joined First Baptist Church of Laurel, where he taught Sunday School for many years and worshipped faithfully alongside his church family.
Thomas was a man of many passions—foremost among them was the practice of law, the Ole Miss Rebels, and the love he held for his children and grandchildren. He was defined by an unwavering work ethic, quiet determination, and a steadfast commitment to excellence in all that he undertook.
As an attorney and a judge, Thomas fought tirelessly for his clients and he valued hard work, living by the belief that anything worth doing was worth doing right. He served on numerous boards and committees and was honored to serve as President of the Mississippi Association for Justice shortly before his retirement. He loved his profession and the opportunity to serve others, often encouraging young people to find work they loved—because “when you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life.”
Outside of his work and faith, Thomas enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He loved music and travel, and he took great delight in cheering on his beloved Ole Miss Rebels. He found peace in the outdoors, tending to the land and appreciating the beauty of God’s creation. Whether at work, on the farm, at a grandchild’s event, or at a Rebel sporting event, Thomas lived fully and with purpose.
Above all, Thomas loved his family. He embraced a “work hard, play hard” philosophy and was deeply involved in his children’s lives during their school years. He always offered guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support. His greatest joy, however, was his grandchildren— all of whom he adored without measure. He treasured every moment with them and took great pride in watching them grow and succeed. He often reminded his children that kids spell love T-I-M-E.
Thomas is survived by his three children, Melissa (Brad) Murray, Laura (Jimmy) Cerra, and Thomas Q. Brame III; his five grandchildren, who lovingly called him “Biggie”: Elizabeth Murray, Bradley Murray, James Cerra, John Wylie Cerra, and Mackenzie Brame; his sister, Carol (Win) Girod; and his nephews, Jon Winters (Danielle), William (Angela), and Nicholas (Aidan) Girod. He is also survived by several cousins and extended family members.
Serving as pallbearers are Bradley Murray, James Cerra, John Wylie Cerra, Jon Winters Girod, William Girod, Nicholas Girod, Brad Murray and Jimmy Cerra.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Shepherd Center, First Baptist Church of Laurel, or the charity of your choice.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026 from 9:30 AM until 11:00 AM, at the First Baptist Church of Laurel, located at 607 W. 5th St., Laurel, Mississippi. Funeral will follow at 11:00 AM at the same location with burial at Bay Springs Cemetery, in Bay Springs, Mississippi. Dr. Randy Turner and Bro. Shannon Slover will officiate the services.
