Remembering The Good Reverend

The following are the remarks I offered at the funeral service conducted for Reverend Tom Wall on Wednesday afternoon at Salem United Methodist Church.

Remembering Reverend Tom Wall

The obituary marking this great man’s passing reads:

"He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Corrine; his son, Thomas, Jr. and his wife, Mae Lynn, all of Pocomoke City; and his daughter, Christine, of Fruitland."

Contained in that sentence is one of the greatest double meanings I have ever read. It is clear the writer intended to indicate that Corrine, Tommy, and Mae Lynn all live in Pocomoke City which is true. What is equally true is that “Pocomoke City” is one of the good reverend’s “survivors”.

“Survivors” are those who carry on the legacy. They are the remnant of our lives and they are our character personified. Reverend Wall had expectations that his children and his children’s children would carry on the traits which he held so dear. As his “survivor”, he held the same expectations for the city that he loved and the people who call Pocomoke City “home”.

Reverend Wall encouraged an entire city one person at a time. He was quick to share a good report or put his arm around you and look you in the eye. He spoke life to those who found themselves in a dark place, and he never forgot the cause of the poor and needy among us.

On behalf of a grateful, yet mourning city, I wish to thank his family for sharing him with this community for so many wonderful years. We will not be the same city without his presence, but he has made us a better city by his actions.

As his “survivors”, may we all carry out his legacy of public service, civic duty, and the love and nurturing of our fellow citizens.

May God bless the Wall’s and this city as we heal and move forward.