Born July 31, 1943, in Richmond, he was a son of the late V. Thomas Chears Jr. and Frances Cushman Chears.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Caroline Chears Marsee.

Tom was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church and retired with information systems for the state of Tennessee.

Surviving are his wife, Betty A. Chears; two half-sisters, Nelson P. Chears and Lee H. Chears; numerous nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews and great-greatnieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be conducted at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 18, at Rockbridge Memorial Gardens by the Rev. Anita Lucord.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given to the Rockbridge SPCA, Nashville Humane Association or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory. N-G