Obituary
Thomas Cullen Wilcox, 95, of Shell Point Retirement Community, Fort Myers, Florida, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, went to be with the Lord on September 24, 2018. Tom passed peacefully from complications due to Parkinson’s disease in the presence of Mary, his loving wife of more than 31 years. Tom was born in Youngstown, OH to loving parents, Thomas Webb and Mildred H. Wilcox.
Tom served his country in WWII in the Ninth Air Force and was stationed at Stansted AFB in England. After flying 67 missions he was shot down while on a bombing mission over Holland. With the help of the Dutch Underground he was safely hidden for two months, until he was finally able to reunite with his unit. After his service Tom became a pastor and also worked for General Tire and Rubber in Akron, OH.
Tom pastored for 18 years at Forest Hill Community Church in Akron, OH. After retiring as pastor and 39 years at General Tire, he and first wife, Evelyn “Pat” Wilcox, retired to Florida in 1980. After a courageous battle with breast cancer his loving wife of 39 years went to be with the Lord in 1985.
Tom leaves behind his loving wife Mary, his three surviving children, son David (Patti) of Akron, OH, daughter Rebecca Jordan (Louie) of Rootstown, OH and daughter Melody Pratt (Joe) of Douglasville, GA, seven grandchildren Michelle, Mark, Seth, Justin, Rayne, Brianna and Dani. Tom was also blessed to have twelve great-grandchildren.
Tom was preceded in death by daughter Debbie at age 20 after battling leukemia and brothers Don and Glen (Cheryl)
Tom’s joys in life were many and included fishing, hunting, gardening, shelling and writing his autobiography ‘One Man’s Destiny’.
Tom loved his family and we will miss his wisdom, his kind and gentle spirit and his sense of humor.
Tom made a difference in the lives of those he met as a Pastor, Teacher, and Counselor that is still seen today.
A military service will be held at a later date at the Sarasota National Cemetery in Sarasota, FL.
Family and friends may sign the guest register or leave condolence message by visiting www.baldwincrematin.com.
Affordable Cremations by Baldwin Brothers is honored to serve the Wilcox family.
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