KILMARNOCK—Thomas Welby “Tom” Bonner III of Kilmarnock died on August 10, 2024. He was born on May 29, 1944, to T.W. Bonner Jr. and Leah Williams Bonner of Kilmarnock. Tom attended Massanutten Military Academy and Chowan College.
Tom grew up in Kilmarnock, before later moving to Richmond where he was involved in several types of businesses, from insurance to restaurants, but he never lost his love for his hometown.
Tom returned to Kilmarnock because he firmly believed this was the best place to raise a family. He moved into the same neighborhood in which he grew up. He began a new career as a real estate agent along with his good friend, Braxton Waple. He and Tom Davis used to do an early morning radio show on WKWI that was a big hit with their audience. Years later, people would come up to him, remembering that show and how much they loved it.
Tom played tenor saxophone in numerous bands; music was his passion. His band played at the Tides Inn for years, entertaining guests and locals alike with their signature jazz tunes.
Tom was very active in sports in high school. A star athlete in school, he later played semi-pro baseball with the Texacos. Tennis became his favorite sport after he retired, although he also enjoyed kayaking, golf, billiards, table tennis and croquet. As one of his friends said, “He really excelled at all sports.”
Tom was known for his sense of humor and good nature. He loved making people laugh and spread joy wherever he went. Everyone was a friend—he was always eager to get to know new people and was cordial to everyone. He delighted in regaling friends with stories of growing up on the Northern Neck.
Over the past several years Tom suffered from COPD, which made it impossible to play music or participate in sports. He stayed brave and positive always.
Tom is survived by his devoted wife of 12 years, Carter Bonner; her daughters, Alex Prillaman (Carrie Nixon), Elizabeth Prillaman (Jack Jacobs), Kyle Torgrimson (Victor) and their sons, Aidan and Finn Torgrimson.
Tom also leaves behind his children, Stephanie Stahl (Scott) and their children, Madeline Stahl and Macy Stahl; Melanie Bonner (Luc Leblanc) and their children, Oliver Hill, Elliot Hill, Cameron Leblanc and Mitchell Leblanc; Alison Bonner (Max Blatt) and their daughter, Elliot Blatt; and his son, Thomas Welby “Tommy” Bonner IV. Tom is also survived by his brother, Steve Bonner (Lynn) and sister, Lynne Saunders (Cres) and their children and grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, September 6 at Currie Funeral Home, 116 East Church Street, Kilmarnock.
