William Thomas "Tom" Hamlin, Jr

William Thomas Hamlin, Jr, known to all as Tom, peacefully left this world in his sleep on August 10, 2026 at the age of 82 years old. His final days were spent at Smith Mountain Lake with his beloved wife of 53 years, Mary Baker Hamlin, and were sprinkled with frequent visits from friends and family members.

Tom was born to William Thomas Hamlin Sr (Bill) and Sarah Sanders Hamlin in Ardmore, Oklahoma at an Army hospital. His father served in the US Army during WWII. Bill was transferred to the Pentagon, so their family lived in Arlington for Tom’s first two years of life. When Bill retired from the Army to work for the B.C. Remedy Company as the west coast sales manager the family moved to Whittier, California for 8 years. When Tom was 10 years old, his father was transferred Durham, NC, where he completed the remainder of his education.

A graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill, he loved Carolina basketball. He was a runner in high school and an avid tennis player for much of his life.

He was a First Lieutenant in the United States Army, proudly serving our country in Germany and Vietnam. He was awarded the Bronze Star Award for Meritorious Achievement in Ground Operations against Hostile Forces. Following his years in the Army he joined State Farm Insurance in Greensboro, NC where he spent his entire career. He became a Claims Superintendent and turned down career promotions for the sake of stability for his family.

Tom was faithful in service to God through his church home at First Presbyterian Church, Greensboro serving as an Elder and various other roles for many years, and then in later years at Trinity Ecumenical Church in Moneta, VA where he retired with Mary at Smith Mountain Lake. He served with Habitat for Humanity, the Lions Club, the Sheriff’s Department, the United States Power Squadron, Lake Christian Ministries, and more. He exemplified servant leadership.

Tom had a gentle spirit. He was kind, compassionate, generous and servant-hearted. He was deeply loved by many people. He was a quiet leader, a great listener, thoughtful, intelligent and courageous. He respectfully waited to offer his opinion until it was requested.

He was humorous and quick to offer a witty response, lightening the moment to make others laugh. He frequently held two fingers behind anyone’s head to give bunny ears in a photo.

Nature brought him great joy. He enjoyed camping, sailing, and delighted in yardwork. He spent hours planting flowers, pruning roses and taking meticulous care of his yard. He loved his riding lawn mower. He faithfully fed the birds and enjoyed the rhythms of lake life at Smith Mountain Lake.

Tom is lovingly remembered by his wife, Mary, his daughter, Sara Beth (Justin) Verm, and son, Jonathan (Julie) Hamlin, and seven grandchildren: Andrew Verm, Hank Hamlin, Caroline Verm, Ava Hamlin, Susanna Verm, Worth Hamlin, and Mary Claire Verm. Tom’s legacy also endures through numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and the many friends whose lives he touched with kindness and integrity.

A worship service to celebrate Tom’s life will be held at Trinity Ecumenical Church in Moneta VA to celebrate his life on September 26, 2026 at 2pm immediately followed by a reception.

Memories and condolences are welcomed and appreciated. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be sent to the Memorial Fund at Trinity Ecumenical Parish at 40 Lakemount Dr, Moneta VA 24121.