Thomas Bosley McCary

Thomas Bosley McCary, age 75, of Williamsburg, VA peacefully departed this life on January 6, 2021, surrounded by his family. Tom was known for his unwavering faith in the Lord and his love of history, the English language, and birds. To all those with whom he was acquainted, he was known first and foremost as the epitome of a southern gentleman. After spending his childhood in Williamsburg, Tom graduated from high school at Christchurch School in 1963, and then attended the University of Virginia where he earned both a bachelor's and master's degree. In 1968, Tom was drafted by the Army and assigned to Fort Dix prior to serving his country proudly for seven months in Vietnam as a Specialist 4. At the conclusion of his military service, Tom obtained additional master's degrees from both the University of Richmond and Emory University. He then pursued a career in education, with tenures at Hargrave Military Academy, Fork Union Military Academy, and Blue Ridge Academy during which he taught English and served as a librarian. Tom selflessly paused his teaching career, returning to Williamsburg to serve as the primary caregiver for his mother for three years as her health failed. Afterward, he pursued a second career that allowed him to blend his vast historical knowledge with his love of nature and the written word. Tom worked at Sherwood Forest and then Shirley Plantation as a docent, while also penning a column for Shirley Plantation detailing his most recent bird spottings and explaining their migratory habits. A longtime member of the Williamsburg Bird Club, Tom enjoyed sharing his expertise while leading bird walks at Shirley in addition to the historical tours he provided.

Throughout his thirteen year battle with cancer, and even in his final days, Tom remained an inspiration to us all through his unwavering perseverance while steadfastly exhibiting gratitude for those who helped him. His family would like to thank all of the healthcare professionals at University of Virginia, Amada Senior Care, and Amedisys Home Health Care who have assisted Tom so expertly and lovingly.

We remember Tom with the following quote: "Being a male is a matter of birth. Being a man is a matter of age. But being a gentleman is a matter of choice". Despite whatever circumstances may have come his way, he made that choice each and every day of his life. Tom's legacy is one steeped in kindness and humility. Tom is survived by his brother Ben, sister-in-law Katherine, nephew Jamie (Kim), niece Sinclair (Josh), great-nephews Ford and Pace, and great-niece Ridley. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Benjamin "Mac" and Mary McCary. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Tom's life at a graveside service to be held at Cedar Grove Cemetery at 809 S. Henry St Williamsburg, Va 23185 on January 30th at 1pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Williamsburg Bird Club, P.O. Box 1085, Williamsburg, VA 23187 or to Bruton Parish Episcopal Church at 201 W. Duke of Gloucester St., Williamsburg VA 23185.