Dr. T.O. Humber, 80, of Fayetteville, Georgia, passed away June 19, 2002. He was born June 21, 1921 in Atlanta, Georgia, and was raised in the Oakland city area. He served as a captain in the U.S. Air Force, and graduated from Palmer College in 1949.
Dr. Humber was conferred the honorary Philosopher of Chiropractic (PhC) degree by Texas Chiropractic College in 1950. Early in his career, he began a life-long devotion to upper cervical specific chiropractic. After attending seminars taught by the legendary Dr. John Grostic in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Dr. Humber soon became a skilled practitioner and passionate instructor of the Grostic upper cervical technique. He also taught atlas orthogonal technique with his good friend Dr. Roy Sweat, and orthospinology in cooperation with his long time colleague, Dr. Cecil Laney.
As a successful practitioner for 49 years, he imbued his own family with his love for chiropractic. His son, T.M. Humber, joined him in practice following graduation from Palmer in 1978. Dr. T.M. now operates two successful clinics near Atlanta.
Dr. Humber was president of the Georgia Chiropractic Association. He believed strongly in chiropractic education, and was a significant and generous donor to Life University's Heritage Circle.
His impact on his numerous patients was profound and far-reaching during the many years he practiced in Atlanta. Dr. T.O. helped launch the career of Dr. Sid Williams, when he gave the young college football star his first Grostic (upper cervical) adjustment. Not only did chiropractic help to restore his health and playing ability, but it was instrumental in Dr. Sid's decision to become a chiropractor.
A noted Christian layman, Dr. Humber was active with missionary efforts during his retirement, making numerous trips to El Salvador and other Central American countries to assist in the establishment of local churches.
Dr. Humber is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Virginia McLendon Humber; children Sherry Amos; Rev. Terre and Susan Haas; Dr. Thomas M. and Danielle Humber; Jim and Sally Anderson; Brad and Jeena Humber; and 11 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
He leaves behind two brothers, both graduates of Palmer College of Chiropractic - DCs H.M. Humber and D.D. Humber (president of the International Chiropractors Association), and a sister, Dot.
His devotion to the profession of chiropractic is reflected throughout his extended family. Three nephews are graduates of Life University College of Chiropractic: Steven Humber (1979), James (Ken) Humber (1981), and D.D. (Buddy) Humber Jr. (1994).
