Thomas Gilham

Thomas F Gilham, 98, of Hewitt, passed away at Stoney Brook Assisted Living, on November 1, 2022. Visitation will be Monday, November 7, from 1 to 2 p.m. at Pecan Grove Funeral Home, 3124 Robinson Dr., Waco, followed by a graveside service at 2:30 at the Robinson Cemetery, 620 E. Stegall Dr., Robinson, with Pastor Roger Huff officiating.

Thomas was born May 11, 1924 to Earl and Sarah Gilham in Fort Smith, AR. He was the last surviving child of 10 children. While growing up during the Depression he learned the value of a dollar and was frugal his whole life. He learned carpentry skills and was always remodeling his houses and remodeling or building churches. Thomas met his future wife while attending church and they married February 4, 1945. They were married 73 years until her passing in 2018.

He proudly served his country during WWII in the Army Air Corps. After his military service he earned two college degrees with the GI Bill. He then entered the ministry and served as a minister, hospital and prison chaplain, and as the administrator of a senior citizens center in Lufkin, TX.

One of his memorable sayings after meals was, “I only liked part of it. The part I ate.”

Thomas was preceded in death by his wife, Frances; and his son-in-law, David Nollenberger.

Thomas is survived by his daughter, Jean Nollenberger; son, Tom Jr and wife Cathy; son, Jim and spouse Andy Ruiz; son, Mark and wife Rhonda; grandchildren, Beth, Brian, Dustin, Holly, Hannah, Chris, and Cody; great-grandchildren, David, Alison, Abigail, Delilah, Eden, Jacob, Cooper, Abel, Owen, Hudson, Grant, and Lucia.

The family would like to thank Thomas’ caregivers at Stoney Brook Assisted Living and Accent Care Hospice.