Charles W. Tomlinson, affectionately referred to as “Zeke” by all who knew him, departed this life on Thursday, October 7, 2021, at Dogwood Village Assisted Living. He was the first child born to the union of Howard Bryan Tomlinson and Lillie White Tomlinson on December 28, 1928.
He received his formal education in Orange County Public Schools and Hargrave Military Academy. He was a lifetime member of Orange Baptist Church and was also a member of Macedonia Christian Church. He was a 71-year member of the Independent Orange No. 138 Masonic Lodge and was a Korean War era veteran, serving in a Mash Unit. He was a member of the American Legion Post #156 and Somerset Steam and Gas Engine Association, as well as the Antique Automobile Club of America.
As a boy, “Zeke” worked for the Orange Creamery and after his discharge from the Army, was hired as a draftsman at Virginia Metals Industry. A few years later he began a 25-year career working for Acme Visible Records in Crozet, Virginia, becoming a field engineer. He eventually retired from Data Visible Corporation in Charlottesville, Virginia.
“Zeke” was a devoted family man to his wife, children, extended family and in-laws. He had a passion for antique automobiles, and he was a master craftsman at restoration. He was an avid gardener, known for his dinner plate dahlias and bundles of holly. He was an artist and a historian of local folklore. He loved dogs, a good cup of coffee, and telling stories.
He leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 67 years, Ann Baker Tomlinson; three children, Beth Seale and husband, Gary, Wilma Brookman and husband, Barry, and Howard Tomlinson; a sister, Betty Matson and husband Roland; a brother, H. Bryan Tomlinson; a sister-in-law, Barbara Elmore; four grandsons, Will Morton and partner, Liz Ortiz, Ben Morton and wife, Kristina Buoni, Spencer Brookman and wife, Theresa, and Austin Brookman; and two great grandchildren, Gia Morton and Owen Brookman. Numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, and other family members and friends also have him in their memories.
Special thanks go to the staff at Dogwood Village Assisted Living in the friendship and care they gave to “Zeke” during his time living there.
He will be sorely missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
A graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, October, 16, 2021 at Graham Cemetery, with military honors. Rev. Paul Fritz will officiate. Preddy Funeral Home in Orange is assisting the family with arrangements.
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