Major Thomas Wilson Flinchum, U.S. Army (Retired), 83, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 4, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
A proud American, Tom dedicated 20 years of his life to service in the United States Army, retiring with the rank of Major. A highly decorated veteran, he courageously led troops during the Vietnam War and carried a deep sense of duty, leadership, and patriotism throughout his life. Those who served alongside him respected his strength, integrity, and steady leadership.
Following his military retirement, Tom began a second career with the Maintenance Department of Botetourt County Public Schools, where his hard work and commitment once again earned him the respect of colleagues and the community. Over wo years, he rose to become head of the department before retiring for a second time.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Tom was a devoted family man who found his greatest joy in the people he loved. He shared a special bond with his beloved wife, Dottie, whether cheering on women’s basketball together, spending quiet evenings at home, or enjoying the simple moments that made a life well lived. He also loved the game of golf and treasured the friendships and memories made on the course.
Tom is survived by his loving wife, Dorothy; his two daughters, Tammy Keith (Kip), and Monica Wolfe (Derek); his brother, Doug Flinchum, nine grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, all of whom called him Poppy (or Pops) and were blessed by his wisdom, humor, strength, and unwavering love: Chad Rickman (Abby Erdman) and their children Levi and Lulu; Carissa Deloach (Zach) and their two daughters; Joshua Keith; Caleigh McKinnie (PJ) and their children Evelyn and Daphne; Matthew Sweeney (Madeline) and their children Ruby, Park and Lilly; Tommy Keith; Noah Keith (Tori) and their children Kinsley and Kylie; Hunter Collins (Megan) and their daughter Addie; Makenzie Collins Gallimore (Chris); Brittanii Ortiz (Anthony) and their children Kyler and Sophia; Daniel Wolfe; Rebecca Peltonen (Andrew) and their son Elliott.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Archie and Mildred Flinchum.
Thomas Wilson Flinchum will be remembered as a devoted husband, proud father and grandfather, respected leader, decorated veteran, and loyal friend. His legacy of service, humility, and love for family will continue to live on in all who knew him.
The family would like to offer special thanks to the hospice and acute care staff at the Veterans Hospital in Salem for their loving care. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Veterans Hospital in Salem.
A visitation was held on Sunday, May 10, 2026, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Oakey’s East Chapel. Funeral services were on Monday, May 11, 2026, at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Rob Lough officiating. The internment service followed immediately after at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens on Airport Road with Military Honors to honor his faithful service to his country.
Arrangements were by Oakey’s East Chapel, 540-977-3909.
