Thomas "Tom" Keith Whitfield

Thomas (Tom) Keith Whitfield, 71, of White Cross, NC, passed away at his home on Saturday, September 2, 2023 surrounded by his family. .

Tom was ‘Mister 1952’ at Watts Hospital in Durham, NC being the first baby born in 1952 on January 1st. He was born and raised in the White Cross community of Orange County, growing up on a dairy farm. Tom was a very talented tattoo artist and was known as ‘Tattoo Tom’ throughout the east coast.  He loved restoring Harleys and was an excellent mechanic. He loved riding his motorcycles especially with his friends. Tom also had a love and passion for animals. All dogs loved Tom and he enjoyed feeding the donkeys and horses out on the family farm. He loved his family dearly, and enjoyed family get-togethers during holidays.  Tom had a great sense of humor and was a creative, free spirit.

Tom is survived by his wife, Sondra Whitfield of White Cross and his four children and two grandchildren. His children are John Thomas Whitfield, Marie W. Stilley, Brian Keith Whitfield, and Stephanie Diane Whitfield. His precious grandchildren are Miko and Jilly Stilley. He was predeceased by his parents Melvin and Linnie (Linda) Whitfield, his oldest brother, Bruce Whitfield his brother-in-law Tim Upchurch and his son-in-law Jeremy Stilley. His surviving brothers are James (Joyce) and Lyndon (Karen) Whitfield, sister, Lucy Upchurch and his brother-in-law, Robbie Madden. He had several nieces and nephews. 

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Antioch Baptist Church on Friday, September 8 officiated by Rev. J. David Atwater. Visitation will be at 11am with the service to follow at 12 noon in the church sanctuary. The family will also receive  friends after the service in the fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to UNC Hospice, 211 Friday Center Drive, Suite 2041, Chapel Hill, NC 27517. 

Sign an online register book at www.omegafsc.com.  Arrangements are in the care of Omega Funeral Service & Crematory.

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