Thomas William Walraven

In the early morning hours of April 11th, God in Heaven looked down on His child Thomas William Walraven and said “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” And so ended 91 years of an earthly life filled with adventure, selfless dedication to others and a joyful walk with the God who created him. Bill was born on December 4, 1924 to the late Willie Bee and Bessie Cowart Walraven. He graduated from West Fulton High School in 1942 and, like so many others of that time, offered his service to his country at the young age of 18 during World War II. He served in Patton’s Third Army. Shortly after returning home from the war, he met the prettiest girl he had ever seen; married her a year later, and spent the next 69 years proving that love to her. To say he loved baseball would be a mild statement. Bill did everything full on forceful. His teams were very often of championship quality and his favorite opponents were the inmates at the Federal Penitentiary in Atlanta. They always hoped he might do something awful to land him in prison and on their team! Always a good number cruncher, he found work as an accountant with Norfolk Southern Railway and gave the company 42 years of dedicated service. Bill was a man grounded deeply in his faith. He served as a deacon, Sunday school director and teacher in his church. He was well-equipped to serve because he knew his Lord and his Bible and shared that love for both of them freely. He gave 60 years of service as a Master Mason most recently as a member of Palmetto Daylight Lodge #755, and was a Noble Shriner. Bill walked humbly in his service to his God and as the devoted husband to his dear wife Anne Adkisson Walraven. He was an exemplary parent and tower of strength to his daughters Judy Walraven Miller (and husband Gary) and Susan Walraven. His love was brilliantly reflected in the eyes of his grandsons Colonel Doug Hall, USAF, Donald Hall and his great grandchildren Camryn Hall and Andrew Hall. Friendships came easily to Bill and there were many and special bonds were created in the time he was cared for by the staff at Wesley Woods. Friends and family will gather in the Thompkins Auditorium at Wesley Woods on Friday, April 15, 2016 at 2:00 PM to honor Bill Walraven’s wonderful life. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, it is suggested that memorial contributions in his honor may be made to Shriner’s Hospitals for Children 2900 Rocky Point Drive Tampa, FL 33607 or other charity of choice. Online condolences may be expressed at www.mckoon.com. McKoon Funeral Home 770-253-4580.

Thomas William Walraven

December 4, 1924 - April 11, 2016