Thomas "Tom" Elliott Wilson

Thomas “Tom” Elliott Wilson, age 80, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, December 1, 2023 at his home in Monterey. Tom was born in Richmond on June 1, 1943, a son of the late George Osborne and Bonnie Grace (Gum) Wilson.

He grew up in Monterey and attended the Music Conservatory at Shenandoah University, where he studied to become a music teacher. Tom spent many years teaching music and directing marching bands. When he wasn’t teaching music, he was writing songs and leading worship. He loved to garden and spent many hours sitting outside with his tomato plants.

Tom’s heart for people was felt throughout the community. If he saw a need, he worked to fill that need. Whether it was fixing someone’s home or being a father to the fatherless, Tom was always generous with his talents, his earthly possessions, and especially his love. Tom was never afraid to show his deep love and devotion for his family and for Jesus.

As we remember him, know that he is completely whole, worshiping at the foot of his Savior, Jesus.

Surviving family members include the love of his life, Mary “Meg” (Greene) Wilson; as well as his children, Kari Grant of Raleigh, NC, Sam Wilson and his wife, Mischelle of Somerset, KY, Katie Joerg and her husband, Josh of Melissa, TX, and Joanna Bergdoll and her husband, Bobby of Mount Sidney. Also surviving are his grandchildren, Megan Grant, TJ Grant and his wife, Katelyn, Dylan Wilson, Emma Wilson, Rachel Bergdoll, Isaiah Bergdoll, Josiah Joerg; and great grandson, Wyatt Grant. Tom is also survived by siblings, George Wilson, Jr. of Bridgewater, Mary Tacy and husband, Gail, and Ray Wilson and wife, Sherrie all of Staunton.

A funeral service will be held 11 a.m., Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at Church in the Meadow (formerly known as Word of Faith) with Pastor Chip Hill officiating.  A viewing and visitation will be held one hour prior to the service, and continued visitation with the family during a meal of fellowship at the church following interment in Monterey Cemetery. 

Serving as pallbearers are Wayne Marshall, Scott Wells, Justin Will, Harold Chapman, Michael Shell, Sam Shell, Lon Ricketts, Bobby Bergdoll, Bud Wimer, and Les Kodger.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Jewish Voice, a cause close to Tom’s heart. Contributions can be made by mail at P.O. Box 31998, Phoenix, AZ 85046-1998 or online at https://www.jewishvoice.org/