Tommie Whelchel

On Saturday, December 4, 2010 TOMMIE JAMES WHELCHEL was set free into the loving arms of God. Tommie Whelchel was the fourth child born to the late Z.L. and Elizabeth Whelchel on October 18, 1942 in Gainesville, Georgia. Everybody loved Tommie. There was an instant bond when you met him. Tommie was a soft spoken, caring, kind and sensitive person; just a likeable guy. He was slow to anger and separated himself from argumentative situations. Tommie was raised in a very warm and loving family environment. His parents were always supportive of him during his difficult times. Tommie received his education in the Baltimore City Public School System. In June, 1960 Tommie graduated in the first Technical Class at Caver Vocational Technical High School. He received many certificates which entitled him to wear the “C” for varsity baseball, basketball and football. After graduation, Tommie joined the United States Air Force where he became an Air Policeman. With an honorable discharge, Tommie returned home and started employment at the Goodwill industries, Maryland National Bank and the United States Post Office. Finally, he decided to go back to school receiving two A.A. Degrees from the Community College of Baltimore (Harbor Campus). He then went to Coppin State College where he received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Applied Psychology and going on to received numerous certificates from Coppin and was also Dean’s List. Tommie was so proud when he was employed as a counselor with Johns Hopkins Hospital/Changing Directions Rehabilitation Center. He helped mainstream clients back to society. During his employment, he received awards and certificates for his performance. Tommie’s dream was to build and operate a shelter for homeless men. Tommie enjoyed collecting 50’s and 60’s records. He would listen to his music for hours. He was an excellent hand dancer. Two highlights in Tommie’s life were marring his long time companion, Phyllis Williams, and becoming a baptized member at New Shiloh Baptist Church. Tommie was just a good hearted and modest person who loved helping others and asking for nothing in return. Tommie leaves to cherish his memory: sons, Thomas Whelchel and Andre Rogers: daughters, Denise Merrick and Robin Whelchel: stepdaughter, Pamela Hunter; mother-in-law, Margaret Dickson; brother, Carlton Whelchel; sisters Betty Hubbard, Barbara Freeman, Jean Tolson and Janice Whelchel; uncle, Rev. W.L. Whelchel (Rebeksh); aunts, Ornie Lee Whelchel and Mattie Lee Hudson; sister-in-law, Aurelia Whelchel (Charlie) and Bernice Whelchel (Carlton). He is also survived by one granddaughter, three grandons, one great-granddaughter and a host of other relatives and friends. Tommie was preceded in death by his brother, Charlie Louis Whelchel.

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Tommie Whelchel

October 18, 1942 - December 4, 2010