Travis Scott Mortimer died on August 10, 2022, in Nashville after a tenacious and heroic seven-year battle with brain cancer. He was 46. “Although you would disagree, your life has been nothing short of remarkable and inspiring—the type of story movies are made about,” said his son, Noah. “Your grandchildren will know you as a hero, because that’s what you are: a hero, our hero.”
Family members tell both a wonderful and wrenching story of his rise from childhood adversity to become an outstanding husband, father, city manager, and navy officer and veteran. Travis faithfully served his church in many capacities over several decades.
Since his birth into humble circumstances on December 18, 1975, in National City, CA, Travis’s story continues to fascinate and inspire. After leaving home for U.S. Naval service at 18, he never looked back, later becoming a commissioned officer deployed to Iraq. Assignments took him to many places, including California, Florida, Mississippi, Maine, West Virginia, and New Mexico. His duty station in Iceland was particularly enjoyed by family members.
He earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of South Carolina in 2006, and a master’s from Georgia Tech in 2010.
Shortly before his passing, Travis was City Manager of Oak Hill, TN.
Daughter Lily recalls how thoughtful and generous her father was. “If you mentioned that you liked a certain candy, he would later surprise you with it. He was always thinking of others.”
Family was Travis’s center of gravity. Daughter Katy fondly recalls her father helping with science fair projects. “He helped establish a Charlotte County award for science fair projects on water conservation.” He also coached her first Lego League robotics team.
With an insatiable zest for life, Travis ran marathons; he was an amateur chef and “foodie,” preparing delectable meals for family and friends. A dry wit accompanied his signature hearty laugh. “You gave us your weird sense of humor, your love for good Thai food, and your unquenchable thirst for adventure,” Noah said.
Travis is survived by wife Meredith, the love of his life, and three adoring children: Noah, Lily, and Katy, all of Spring Hill, TN. His siblings are Joe Mortimer, Allison Williams, and Josh Williams. Brothers and sisters-in-law include Daniel and Kayna Stout of Anderson, SC; Carol and Ed Bonza of Acworth, GA; and Mark (deceased) and Tonia Stout of Jasper, GA. Mark was Travis’s fellow marathoner for many years.
He is preceded in death by mother-in-law, Betty Sue Stout, who he affectionately called “mom.”
Travis is survived by his father, Thomas Mortimer, and pre-deceased by his mother, Stephanie Hood.
He died young. Too young. But, Travis, you put up one hell of a fight, and we are touched by your courage and resolve. How we treasure the time we had you in our lives.
“The spirits of all men, as soon as they are departed from this mortal body…are taken home to that God who gave them life.” [Book of Alma 40:11]
Memorial Service:
Saturday, August 20, 2022
11:00 AM CST
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
2998 Commonwealth Dr.
Spring Hill, TN 37174
Also held via Zoom for family and friends unable to attend in person.
Join Zoom Meeting:
https://zoom.us/j/92906050793?pwd=NzFSMmszOGwweEN3M3JaaWp6Q112QT09
Meeting ID: 929 0605 0793
Passcode: 327472
The care of Mr. Travis Mortimer and his family has been entrusted to the staff of Williams Funeral Home. To share words of comfort and condolences, please visit www.williamsfh.com.
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