Thomas Charles “Tom” Whitson, 84, of Beaumont, died Sunday, September 5, 2010, at Harbor Hospice in Beaumont.

He was born March 28, 1926, in Timpson to Erma Jean Thomas and Archie Lee Whitson. At the age of 16, Tom moved to Beaumont and graduated from Beaumont High School in 1943.  After graduation, he enlisted in the Navy where he joined the Navy Band.  After serving his country, Tom enrolled at Lamar University where he studied for two years before leaving for the University of Texas in Austin where he earned both his Bachelor of Arts, and his Masters degree in Music. Tom spent two decades sharing his love of music with young people first as high school band director in Grand Saline for five years and then for fifteen years in Cleburne.

Retiring back to Beaumont, Tom sang in the choir of Trinity United Methodist Church, was a member of the Dunkin Donuts Coffee Club, and could often be found walking the mall or on the dance floor of the Pompano Club in Port Neches.

Survivors include his son, Jess Whitson of Dallas; niece, Pam Whitson; nephew, Richard Whitson; and countless friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Archie Lee Whitson.

His graveside service will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, September 9, 2010, at Woodlawn Cemetery in Timpson under the direction of Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont.  A gathering of his family and friends will be from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 8, 2010, at Broussard’s.