The Legacy of Tom Ceci: Building Community and Trust

The people who shape a place over the long arc of decades are rarely the ones who set out to do so. They simply do the work in front of them, year after year, and the place becomes shaped by their presence whether they intended it or not. In Pottsboro, Texas, Tom Ceci is one of those rare individuals. The co-founder of Ceci Bates Custom Homes, Tom has been an integral part of the Lake Texoma region since he began building here in the 1980s.

Before the founding of Ceci Bates in 1999, Tom had already established a reputation for craftsmanship and integrity. Those early years were when his approach took shape—standards that prioritized quality, respect for the trades, and a commitment to work he’d be proud to claim as his own. When Scott Bates joined him, their partnership was built on these foundational principles, elevating the company to new heights.

Tom remains the anchor of the production side, overseeing construction processes once the design phase is complete. His nearly four decades in custom home building carry a wealth of institutional memory, vital for a firm whose reputation relies on consistent excellence. Beyond the realm of construction, Tom serves as the mayor of Pottsboro—a role that reflects the trust and respect he has garnered over the years.

The same meticulous care that has characterized over a thousand homes in North Texas is evident in Tom’s commitment to public service. It is this blend of dedication to craft and community that endears him to Pottsboro’s residents, and it mirrors the values ingrained in Ceci Bates Custom Homes.

The credibility of a builder is measured most clearly by the community that has known them the longest. Tom Ceci’s story exemplifies this truth, demonstrating the enduring impact of steadfast commitment and honesty. We invite you to learn more about Ceci Bates Custom Homes and our dedicated team at cecibates.com.