Thomas William Morgan

Thomas William Morgan, 73, of Bedford, died in his home on Monday, September 21, 2020. He was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on October 24, 1946 and raised in Metairie, Louisiana, a son of Alice Heinz Morgan and the late Thomas Harry Morgan. Tom was a man who believed in duty, truth, and honor, and the love of his family, community, and country was paramount in his life.  Tom, a courteous, mild-mannered man, was well known for his integrity, his gift for lasting friendships, his wisdom as a teacher, and his love of family and friends. Tom, a veteran of the United States Air Force, served his country for over twenty years with several tours of Vietnam during the Vietnam War.  Tom was also a member of the Virginia Air National Guard during which time he also became a member of the City of Hampton Police Department until his retirement as a Detective Sergeant and he also retired with an honorable discharge at the rank of Chief Master Sergeant from the Virginia Air National Guard. Tom Morgan believed strongly in giving back to his community through his efforts, time, and donations.  Tom was an Eagle Scout and was an active member of the Bedford Lions Club, where he managed multiple fundraising projects and numerous events on a yearly basis.  He also volunteered for the Bedford Christian Ministries and as a reading buddy for Bedford County Public Schools. Tom also supported numerous civic organizations, including the Bedford Humane Society and National Public Radio.  In his leisure time, Tom served as president of the Roanoke Coin and Relic Club for several years and he enjoyed watching football, playing golf, metal detecting, target practice, and spending time with family and friends. Tom is survived by his wife, Mary Miles, of Bedford; mother, Alice H. Morgan of Metairie, LA; brothers, Kenneth Morgan and Timothy Morgan, also of Louisiana; two daughters, Kelli M. Morton of Enid, Oklahoma, Tracie M. Kirkpatrick of Hampton, Virginia; stepson, Barry G. Johnson of Roanoke, Virginia; seven grandchildren; special friends, Sally Hensley and Francis “Smitty” Smith and many other friends. There will be no public viewing nor ceremony in accordance with Tom’s wishes. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Bedford Humane Society, 829 Old Turnpike Dr., Bedford, VA 24523, or online at bhsva.org. Arrangements by Burch-Messier Funeral Home, Bedford, 540-586-7360.