Thomas Chalmers Wilson

Tom was born in Brooklyn, NY, the only child of Virginia Chalmers and Robert Francis Wilson, Jr. His mother loved him dearly, and his father was tough. After a brief time in Alexandria, Virginia, Tom grew up in Montclair, N.J. Tom was a beloved husband, cousin and step-father. He was funny, playful, and his many stories would bring laughter to family and friends. Growing up as a member of the Chalmers clan, Tom was surrounded by Aunts and Uncles, and adoring cousins. He loved to spend winters on Cape Cod with Bapa and Bama Chalmers, and cherished cousins. Tom took great pride in the role of jokester – he would torment his cousins one minute, and with loving affection, show that he meant no harm the next.

Tom graduated from Colgate University in 1948. He married his first wife, Nora T. Brown, in 1950. Tom served in the U.S. Army in South Korea from 1952-53 as a Corporal, and was honorably discharged.

Tom loved to play the piano. He would thrill the "young-ins" with his musical skills while playing the piano with a grapefruit. During family gatherings, he was often called upon to do just that, and to share family lore that only he and his beloved cousins could know was true. Tom loved to write poetry and music. Following September 11, 2001, he composed a "9/11 Requiem" that is cataloged with the 9/11 Memorial in New York City.

Tom loved politics and political discourse (a Chalmers trait, no doubt), and shared his opinions and beliefs, while respecting that others may not feel the same way.

Tom was married and widowed three times - his life partners were Nora T. Brown, Ellie Gravalec, and Joyce Skidmore.

Tom moved to Utah in 2012. He met his third wife in her Reader's Theater class in 2013. He showed up for the last day of the class in a suit and tie and flowers and told Joyce "Let's go dancing." They were married in January 2014 when he was 86 and she was 88. He would often say that marrying Joyce took him "from the outhouse to the penthouse." Tom took a ski lesson when he was 88 with the help of his stepson, Kelly. Tom was continually upbeat and positive no matter what life threw at him. Tom was an active member in the LDS church.

Tom’s East Coast family wishes to express gratitude to Joyce’s son, Kelly, for taking good care of Tom following the death of Kelly’s Mom – Tom’s beloved Joyce. While going through his own grief, Kelly ensured that Tom was well taken care of and connected to family members by way of video calls. Kelly was instrumental in ensuring that Tom received the best of care in his final days. 

Tom was also a joy to the staff and residents of the VA facility where he ultimately passed away peacefully in his sleep Jan 4, 2025 at 8:10pm MT.

Thomas Chalmers Wilson will be missed by all who loved and cherished him.