August 1, 1939 – May 23, 2025

 

Thomas Gerald Booker, also known affectionately as “Red,” passed away on May 23, 2025, at the age of 85, surrounded by his devoted family.  He has made a lasting impression on those who knew him and will be greatly missed by all.

 

Born on August 1, 1939, in Louisville, Kentucky, Tom was the oldest son of the late Abner and Willetta (Lincoln) Booker. He graduated from Dupont Manual High School in 1957 before moving to Richmond, Virginia, where he pursued his education at the University of Richmond. As a gifted athlete, Tom proudly played both baseball and basketball for the university, earning admiration for his skill and sportsmanship. He was named All-Southern Conference as a senior outfielder in 1961 and went on to sign a professional contract with the New York Yankees, playing three minor league seasons before injury cut short his career.

 

In 1963, Tom married his college sweetheart, Nancy Lois Adams, the love of his life. Together, they served their community and church, New Bridge Baptist, where Tom remained an active and dedicated member. He was also a longtime member of Hermitage Country Club, where he forged lasting friendships and enjoyed countless rounds of golf.

 

Tom’s professional career included his work in the insurance industry at the Farm Bureau, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Delta Dental of Virginia, where he served as Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. In retirement, he enjoyed running VSGA One Day Event golf tournaments for seniors.

 

His passion for sports earned him well-deserved recognition, as he was honored in the Richmond Amateur Softball Association Hall of Fame (1989), the Highland Springs High School Wall of Fame (2018), the University of Richmond Athletics Hall of Fame (2019), and the DuPont Manual Alumni Association Hall of Fame (2023). He was also the founder and Commissioner of the Richmond Basketball League which had 72 teams from 1962-1982.

 

Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Nancy Adams Booker. He leaves behind his two loving daughters and their spouses, Anne Booker Robbins (Chris) of Mechanicsville, Virginia, and Sarah Booker Cochran (Paul) of Chester, Virginia. He was a beloved “Papa” to his six grandchildren—Ashley, Amber, Christopher, Paul, Tabitha, and Thomas, and a cherished great-grandfather to Owen, Sadie Kate, Allie, Luke, Sophie Jane, and Lillian.

 

The funeral service will be held on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at 1 p.m. at New Bridge Baptist Church (5701 Elko Rd, Sandston, VA 23150). The family will receive visitors beginning at noon. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the New Bridge Baptist Church building fund.