Walter "Walt" Clarence Tomlinson, Jr.

Belmont, NC - Walter "Walt" Clarence Tomlinson, Jr., a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2023, at CaroMont Regional Medical Center. He was born on October 3, 1932, to the late Walter C. Tomlinson, Sr. and Melissa Reece Tomlinson in East Bend, North Carolina. He is also preceded in death by his sisters, Bertha Mae Pointdexter, Mattie White Tomlinson, Mary Ruth Marler and Helen Gray Snow.

Walt was a devoted and loving husband to his wife of 68 years, Carol Ann Goodrum Tomlinson. They shared countless memories together and built a beautiful life surrounded by love.

A man of many accomplishments, Walt was the Director responsible for the re-imaging of Camp Thunderbird on Lake Wylie, South Carolina in the 1960’s; opening the camp to young women and minorities. His stories and fondest memories were of the events and lives he helped shape with young campers and counselors.  After camp he had an illustrious career as an Investor Counselor with Lincoln National Life. Walt's dedication to his work made a significant impact on the lives of those around him.
His retirement years were spent as the owner and operator of Wood Working Machinery Supplies for many wonderful years which he closed up 2 years ago.
Truly a family man at heart, Walt cherished spending time with his children and grandchildren. Some of their fondest memories were created at Camp Thunderbird in Lake Wylie, South Carolina.  He had an undeniable talent for storytelling and jokes that kept everyone entertained during family gatherings.

Aside from his professional achievements and hobbies, Walt also proudly served in the U.S. Army. His military service was a testament to his patriotism and commitment to his country. He attended Appalachian State University, he later graduated from Belmont Abbey.

Walt is survived by his loving wife Carol Ann Goodrum Tomlinson; their children David Lewis Tomlinson, Walter "Barry" Tomlinson, and Nancy T. Smith (Russell); four wonderful grandchildren Micaela Smith (John Spicek), Piper Chase Tomlinson, Colby Reed Tomlinson, and Willow Grace Tomlinson. He will be dearly missed by all those whose lives he touched.

Visitation services will be held on September 2, 2023, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at First United Methodist Church, located at 807 South Point Road, Belmont, NC 28012. Following the visitation, a funeral service will be held at the same location from 2:00 p.m., Saturday with Reverend George Ragsdale officiating. Interment will follow at Greenwood Cemetery. Pallbearers will be David Tomlinson, Barry Tomlinson, Colby Tomlinson, Terry Sutton, John Spicek and Russell Smith.

In honor of Walt's memory, his family kindly requests that donations be made to First United Methodist Church, 807 South Point Road, Belmont, NC  28012 or YMCA Camp Thunderbird, 1 Thunderbird Lane, Lake Wylie, SC  29710
Walt brought immense joy to the lives of his loved ones and leaves behind a lasting legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories. He will forever remain in our hearts and will be remembered as an extraordinary individual who made a difference in the lives of those around him.
Please join us in celebrating Walt's life and sharing our condolences with the entire Tomlinson family during this challenging time of loss. Condolences may be made to www.withersandwhisenant funeral.com

Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation is serving the Tomlinson family.