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Thomas Chrislip Obituary

Thomas L. Chrislip, 73, of Norfolk, passed away on November 14, 2023, after a 6-month battle with Merkel Cell Carcinoma.

Tommy was born on May 31, 1950, to Gilbert and Lois Chrislip. After he graduated from Maury High School in 1968, he began a 37-year career in law enforcement, first as a Sergeant in the Norfolk Police Department and then as a Captain at the Norfolk Sheriff's Department. Tommy's retirement job was working for Redbox.

Tommy is preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert and Lois Chrislip, and his grandson Calix Kimel.

He is survived by his wife of 24 years, Susan Chrislip, his children Courtney Gehweiler (Roland III), Matthew Stites, Andrew Stites (Sarah), and Katelyn Stites; his siblings Diana Carter, Mary Quarberg (Steve), and Steve Chrislip (Donna); his grandchildren Roland Gehweiler IV and Khayan Kimel; and finally, his best furry friend, Gulliver.

As a boy, Tommy excelled in baseball at Azalea Little League, Maury, and American Legion Post 60. He was a mentor to many young police and sheriff's deputies. Even former inmates would approach him in public and be comfortable enough to strike up a conversation. He loved travelling with friends, had a great sense of humor, and enjoyed sharing an inexhaustible supply of stories.

There will be a graveside service at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Norfolk on November 19 at 1pm. Following the service, all are invited to attend a celebration of Tommy's life at the Norfolk Fraternal Order of Police Commodore Lodge #3, 1111 Harmony Road. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Wildlife Center of Virginia.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Virginian-Pilot on Nov. 16, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
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Tom & Diane - Paramedic Friend's

November 10, 2024

What a friend and a person with such a big heart,Thomas would always lend a hand and comfort someone during any type of crisis and or incident.The world needs more great people like this man, and he is truly missed. Hope all of the family have the memories that we hold in our hearts, and know we miss him here on this earth. Many blessings to all who knew this man.

Joe & Lisa Haughney

November 19, 2023

Sending prayers and condolences.

Mary Auer Glass

November 19, 2023

May his memory be a blessing to us all. Will always miss you, Tommy.

Wayne McBride

November 18, 2023

Wayne McBride

November 18, 2023

Wayne McBride

November 18, 2023

Wayne McBride

November 18, 2023

Wayne McBride

November 18, 2023

Our deepest respect for your exemplary service. Photos provided by the Norfolk Police Museum.

Donald (Bucky) Hampton

November 18, 2023

I always used to call him Mr. TLC (or Sergeant) depending on on duty or off duty status. We have lost a good soul in Tommy. Heaven, u better take notice.!!!!!!

Norm Brinck

November 18, 2023

Susan., Diana, Mary and Steve you are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time share with each other the stories Tommy would tell and laugh. That's good for the heart. I'll be praying for each one of you.

Franklin Harrison

November 18, 2023

Tommy and I met 14 years ago and immediately found that we had so many different things in common. We were always talking and laughing and I will never forget that we would meet on Friday for breakfast and talk about our week.Tommy was always willing to go the extra step to help or do what he could for anyone. I will truly miss him more that most could know. Prayers are with you Susan and family. My thoughts will be will you.RIP my friend.

anonymous

November 17, 2023

A life of service to the NPD and the Sherriffs Dept. Thank you Sir.

Earl Hanna

November 16, 2023

My prayers go out to the Chrislip family. Many good memories of our time together

Millie Yankosky

November 16, 2023

Tommy you will be missed by so many. You were truly one of the great guys.
RIP old friend!

George and Dot Tiedeman

November 16, 2023

Dear Susan,
Time passes, memories linger. It's been a rough year for you and your family. We send our love, thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
George and Dot

John Steadman

November 15, 2023

Sincere condolences and prayers to the Chrislip family on Tommy's passing. He was my Class of '68 classmate and a great guy always.

Dennis A. Brinck

November 14, 2023

Such a wonderful man. The world lost a true treasure and he will never be replaced. It is a honor to be able to say that I knew Tommy since childhood. My sincere condolences to Susan, and the entire Chrislip family. May THEE ALMIGHTY GOD, give you the rewards you deserve.
Rest in peace my dear friend. You will be greatly missed.

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Memorial Events
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Nov

19

Graveside service

1:00 p.m.

Forest Lawn Cemetery

8100 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23505

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