Thomas William Hooker

Thomas William Hooker, age 75, passed away on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, in Aiken, South Carolina.

Tom was born November 10, 1948, to Helen Stearns Hooker and Herbert William Hooker in Seymour, Indiana. He grew up in Indianapolis and graduated from Warren Central High School. Tom had a life-long interest in aviation. He enlisted in the US Air Force and served in Vietnam and Thailand on Air Rescue teams. Once home from the military, Tom continued his education at Purdue University earning a Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Technology and a Master’s degree in Industrial Education. He applied his experience and education to a career at the Naval Training Systems Center in Orlando, FL using simulation to train service members on equipment and procedures to build skills and to assure their safety.

Tom will be missed by many. Survivors include his wife Emily Ann Hooker, two daughters, Nicole D. Shamblin and Dawn M. Chapman, and eight grandchildren. Nicole and her husband Steve currently serve as missionaries in Costa Rica and have six children: Thomas, Emily, Sadie, Reed, Elizabeth, and Lydia. Dawn and her husband Chris reside in Gainesville, GA and have two children: Olivia and Chloe. Other survivors include a sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Anita and Larry Dibrell of Aiken, SC. and Jo and Jess Whitlock of Lafayette, IN. In addition, Tom was blessed with many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.

“Thank you”, is not enough to say to the loving caregivers of the ‘Tom Care’ team who faithfully comforted, protected and served Tom’s needs. Tom loved and depended upon them; they became like extended family. In addition, the family would like to acknowledge Enhabit Hospice for the support provided by their staff over the last several months.

Throughout Tom’s illness as his mind struggled in decline, his spirit and faith remained strong and brought him peace. Tom was looking forward to the open arms of his Savior, Jesus Christ.

The family will receive friends Thursday evening, September 12th from 6 until 8 o’clock at Shellhouse – Rivers Funeral Home.

A graveside service will be Friday morning, October 4th at 11 o'clock in Vernon Cemetery, Vernon, IN.

SHELLHOUSE – RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC