Thomas Yarborough
Thomas Yarborough was an American politician and Democrat. He served in the U.S. Senate from Texas until he was defeated in 1970’s Democratic primary for another term by Lloyd Bentsen.
He is known for his intricate paintings and sketches that portray colonial life in South Africa and Australia. His pieces can be found in museums all around the world.
Early Life and Education
Thomas Yarbrough was born in Dermott, Arkansas. His aunt Hattie cared for him and provided books by civil rights leader James Weldon Johnson, poet Langston Hughes, and writer W.E.B Du Bois – these authors opened up new worlds of knowledge for young Yarbrough.
In 1943, Yarbrough worked at Camp Tyson near Paris, Tennessee as a soda fountain worker when he met Louise Cannon for the first time at a theater performance in Bridgeville.
Yarbrough retired from the Air Force and embarked upon a career as a history professor, publishing articles in various publications. He currently resides in Springfield, Virginia with three nieces and four nephews whom he enjoys spending time with; playing football locally as well as traveling across America for leisure; being an avid supporter of Washington football team being among his hobbies.
Professional Career
Tom Yarborough is a retired Air Force colonel who held multiple flying and staff assignments during his 32 years of service in both combat and support roles in Vietnam as an FAC, earning 30 combat decorations including Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, Purple Heart Medal Air Medal Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry awards.
After his retirement, he found work as a legal assistant at a law firm in Charleston, South Carolina. His focus areas of law practice are trucking & transportation law; sports & recreation law; gig economy matters; motorsports; aviation; and complex civil litigation.
Walt Yarbrough introduced Thomas to River Roar races when he was still young, enabling him to run freely around the track “making more ruckus than necessary” in the pits. Since 2001 he has announced at River Roar events. Additionally he serves as both Wide Receiver Coach at Colby College 2022 as well as being Wide Receiver Coordinator & Video Coordinator at Colby.
Achievement and Honors
In 1965, Yarborough made a career-best 46 Cup Series races – his highest total ever! Although his season wasn’t easy with only one top-10 finish and two race victories to his credit (working again with Wood Brothers Racing at Atlanta International Raceway and Motor State Speedway respectively). He achieved both victories while working under Hall-of-Famer Wood Brothers Racing.
Tom Yarborough is a veteran, military historian, author and retired US Air Force colonel who spent thirty years in both flying and staff assignments – two as a forward air controller during Vietnam.
Dr. Chow’s research interests focus on nineteenth and twentieth-century American literature, particularly African-American studies. Additionally, he serves on various boards for organizations as well as being a member of Buncombe Street United Methodist Church in Greenville, South Carolina.
Personal Life
Yarborough enjoyed reading and socializing with friends during his free time, being an excellent cook and gardening enthusiast. Additionally, he held great affection for animals which he cared deeply for.
Yarborough served in the U.S. Air Force for over thirty years in various flying and staff assignments, with two tours in Vietnam serving as a forward air controller where he earned thirty combat decorations including Silver Star and Distinguished Flying Cross awards.
“Papa Jim,” was married for over 50 years to Carol Hayes Yarborough and they shared three children, four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren together. Additionally, Papa Jim enjoyed traveling as well as his passion for dogs; they lived in Springfield Virginia.
Net Worth
Thomas Yarborough possesses a net worth of $50 Million. He amassed this fortune through business and racing ventures spanning 25+ years; currently owning a dealership and participating in races himself.
Yarborough has an active family life that includes his wife and three daughters. In addition, he served for thirty years in the Air Force where he earned numerous accolades throughout his career.
Cale is a private individual who prefers not to share too much online, although he may make occasional appearances at race tracks or events. A celebrated racing legend, Cale has amassed many admirers throughout his career and also enjoys golf and spending time with family.