Wilford Thomas ''Tom'' Crossman

Wilford Thomas Crossman “Tom”, age 84 of Walland, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2011, surrounded by his loved ones. Tom was born on January 16, 1927 to Wilford and Marguerite Crossman in Grand Rapids, MI. Tom attended South High School in Grand Rapids. He continued his education, graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Michigan in 1949 and later a Master’s Degree from Michigan State. Tom proudly entered the Navy V-12 program in 1944. In June of 1949, he received his full commission as Ensign, serving aboard the USS Benewah. He was later promoted to Lieutenant, where he served as Executive Officer on board the General H. F. Hodges; he was honorably discharged in 1954. Tom worked as a director for city planning in Knoxville, TN, Bloomington, IN, and Frankfort, KY. He was an active member of St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Maryville and a long-standing member of the Rotary Club. His interests included traveling, playing games, college football, and spending time with his family. Tom was a man who knew how to keep hope alive and inspired all who knew him. Tom is survived by wife, Linda Beth Crossman who he was married to for 44 years; three children, Debbi Raiford Davis, Richard Raiford, and Julie Redden; son-in-law, Jim Redden; daughter-in-law, Kimberly Raiford; brother, Robert Crossman; sister, Julie Crossman; grandchildren, Benjamin and Zachary Redden; Lindsey Harkleroad, and Jason Raiford Davis; and many nieces and nephews. A celebration of Tom’s life will be held at St. Andrews Episcopal Church on Monday, April 4, at 2:00 p.m.. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial gifts be made to St. Andrews Episcopal Church. McCammon-Ammons-Click Funeral Home in charge 982-6812 www.mccammonammonsclick.com.