One does not need to spend much time with Tom Seale to know a thing or two about him.

You may know Seale as a key council member and Mayor Pro Tem for the City of Columbiana, or the finance director for the City of Pelham, or from his role on many local non-profit boards, or for his instrumental work in the Columbiana Downtown revitalization not long ago.

His family and friends know him as a loving son, husband, father, brother and a person who can be counted on for help at all times.

For all these things and more, I’ve never seen Seale seek credit for any of the good things he does, many times behind the scenes, in our community.

This approach to public service is likely one of the things that make Seale so beloved in his family, community, workplace and church.

Those who know Seale best will tell you he is a natural leader and giver, but there is something more that makes him who he is. He is a product of the good life he has lived and of the company he keeps.

Seale’s parents, Carol and Bill Seale, raised him in a nurturing and loving home, teaching him by word and example the difference between right and wrong. And, I expect, they were quick to correct the missteps we all make in growing up.

Seale married a wonderful lady, Brenda, who has helped him be a better and more complete man than he might have otherwise been.

Together they are raising two boys, Jared and Jonathan, who hold the promise and character worthy of their family heritage.

Seale lives his life as if prescribed by the scripture “to those whom much is given, much is required.” We are all fortunate for what he gives freely to our community and for what his family and community have given to him.