Thomas Jerome Pence, Jr.

     Thomas Jerome Pence Jr, age 81, of Haw River, passed away on Sunday, March 26, 2023 at Hospice House of Burlington. He left us peacefully in his sleep to be with his holy Father in Heaven. Here on earth, he will be greatly missed.

     Born in Rockingham, NC, he was the son of the late Thomas Jerome Pence Sr. and Betty Wallace Pence. He was married for
over 54 years to his wife, Yoneko Hirohashi Pence who had gone on before him.

     Tom grew up in Rockingham, NC, graduated from Saint Andrews Presbyterian College, and served his country as a member of the US Air Force. He met his beloved wife while stationed in Japan.  He was a devoted father and grandfather and brought great joy to his family. There was nothing that he would not do or sacrifice for the people he loved. Spending time together with his family was his highest priority. From memorable trips to Japan, Hawaii, and an Alaskan cruise with his wife to game nights and beach trips, he truly lived a wonderful, family centric life. He lived his faith as an active member of the First Baptist Church family where he taught Sunday school and served as a deacon for many years. He also volunteered in his community, contributing to countless lives by regularly donating blood and platelets for over 50 years. He gave selflessly and loved to visit with people and hear their stories. He could listen for hours. He retired from Lucent Technologies (previously AT&T and Western Electric) where he was an accountant and contract negotiator.

     He enjoyed bird hunting and playing sports; he was an avid tennis player and played on his college team. But any sport was
fun for him, from church and work softball leagues, volleyball, basketball, and bowling. He especially loved surf fishing at the beach and playing golf.
     

     Tom is survived by his three daughters, Christina Pence Johnston and husband, Robert, Deborah Pence Pendergraph and Patricia
Miki Pawlowski and husband, Daniel; four grandchildren, Caleb Pendergraph and wife, Lauren, Abby Pendergraph, Kimi Pawlowski and Sara Pawlowski; and great granddaughter Morgan. He was preceded in death by his wife Yoneko, parents Tom and Betty; a sister, Susie and his son-in-law, John Pendergraph.

     The funeral service will be held at 2PM on Thursday, March 30, 2023 at First Baptist Church of Burlington. Interment will follow
at Alamance Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 5:00 - 7:00 PM on Wednesday, March 29 at Lowe Funeral Home.

     For those who would prefer to send a memorial in lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Alzheimer’s Association at
act.alz.org, The American Red Cross, or Hospice.