Thomas "Tommy" Winfield Waldrop

Thomas Winfield Waldrop, lovingly known as "Tommy," passed away peacefully on June 3, 2025, in Arlington, Texas, at the age of 78. Born on February 10, 1947, in Dallas, Texas, Tommy was a lifelong Arlington resident whose roots and legacy run deep through the heart of the city he loved.

Tommy graduated from Arlington High School in 1965, where he met the love of his life, Lila Burges. They were married on May 25, 1968, and shared over five decades of love, laughter, and family.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Tommy served as a UH-1 Huey helicopter pilot in Vietnam with the First Cavalry Division. His service was cut short with an honorable discharge to care for his newborn son, Shawn, who was battling meningitis. His bravery extended beyond the battlefield-into his family life, career, and community.

After returning from service, Tommy worked for his father at Regal Tool before returning to the University of Texas at Arlington, where he earned his degree in 1980. Over the years, he worked in various roles, including in the bolt and fastener industry and later at Bell Helicopter, where he excelled as a Procurement Manager. Known for his entrepreneurial spirit, he also ran a side business called "The Video Pros," capturing weddings and special events with his signature commentary and charm.

Tommy had a passion for capturing memories on video, often narrating his sons' basketball, soccer, and football games with his own colorful play-by-plays. His camera was a permanent fixture at family events, scout meetings, and road trips. He was a dedicated Cub Scout Pack leader and an Eagle Scout himself by age 18-impacting many young lives along the way.

A true Arlington historian, Tommy could tell you a story about every corner of the city. From his days as a local paperboy to his involvement with the Arlington High School alumni association and the Vietnam Helicopter Pilot Association, he was deeply connected to the people and the place he called home.

Tommy loved his grandchildren dearly and was known affectionately as "Poppa." He cherished spending one-on-one time with each of them and was always present with love, laughter, and storytelling. Whether attending Friday night football games, walking his beloved dogs Bella and Sophie, going to First Mondays in Canton, or enjoying ski trips with his family, Tommy made every moment count.

Tommy also had a deep appreciation for music, cars, and racing. He attended the inaugural race at Texas Motor Speedway and was a lifelong fan of Darrell and Michael Waltrip. His favorite artist was Jimi Hendrix, whose music was the soundtrack to many of his drives.

Tommy was outgoing, full of humor, and never met a stranger. He made everyone feel important and left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He will be remembered for his big heart, booming voice, infectious laughter, and his deep love for his family, friends, and community.

Tommy is preceded in death by his parents, Tom and Betty Jean Waldrop, and his dog Sophie. He is survived by his devoted wife, Lila Burges Waldrop; sons Bryan Waldrop and wife Sherry, Shawn Waldrop and wife Amber, and Jeff Waldrop and wife Virginia; sister Alice Grissel and husband Jim; brother Harry Waldrop and wife Julie; grandchildren Camilla, Eleanor, Abbey, Samuel, Hannah, Jeffrey, and Justin; and bonus grandchildren Zack, Aubrey, and Brooke. He is also survived by his dog Bella.

Visitation will be held Thursday, June 12, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Wade Funeral Home.A private graveside service will follow.A Celebration of Life will take place Friday, June 13, at 4:00 PM at Gospel City Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Tommy's name to the following organizations that were dear to his heart:

• Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association (VHPA)

• https://www.vhpa.org/donate.htm

• Wounded Warrior Project

• https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org

• Arlington High School Alumni Association - Scholarship Fund

• https://www.ahscolts-alumni.org/scholarship.htm