Wanchese Community Honors Beloved Advocate Thomas Slater

News Summary

The Wanchese community mourns the passing of Thomas John Slater, a devoted advocate and supporter, who contributed selflessly to his community. A celebration of his life is planned at Bethany United Methodist Church. Slater, who passed away at 66, is remembered for his kindness, culinary talents, and unyielding support for those in need, especially after Hurricane Dorian. He is survived by his loving family and will be laid to rest at Cudworth Cemetery.

Wanchese Bid Farewell to Beloved Community Advocate

Wanchese is coming together to remember a cherished member of their community. Thomas John Slater, who was 66 and a resident of Wanchese, formerly of Ocracoke, has passed away. He left us on July 7, in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and his presence will indeed be missed.

A Life of Service and Support

T. J. Slater, as many fondly called him, was married to Rev. Susanna Fitch-Slater, the beloved pastor of Bethany United Methodist Church in Wanchese. Rev. Susanna previously served at Ocracoke United Methodist Church from 2019 until 2021, and together they were an inspiring couple dedicated to their community.

Born on August 30, 1955, in Hartford, Connecticut, Tom was the son of the late Bernice Moore and Hillman Slater. He was not alone in his journey; he had a twin brother, Timothy James Slater, who has also passed. Despite facing this loss, Tom was known for his big heart and was often seen working quietly behind the scenes, supporting others in astounding ways.

Cooking Up Kindness

Tom had a passion for cooking. You could often find him volunteering at food ministries within the churches he served, where he prepared meals for those in need. Following Hurricane Dorian in September 2019, Tom stepped up to provide daily lunches for the Ocracoke School and the wider community, showcasing his deep dedication to helping others.

Those who knew him would agree that he was at his most authentic self when serving others. Tom held a profound and quiet faith, trusting in Jesus Christ and demonstrating the highest form of love through self-sacrifice. He truly believed that giving oneself to help others was a noble calling.

Family and Legacy

The love that Tom carried extended to his family as well. He is survived by three sons: John Slater of Westfield, Massachusetts; Michael Fitch and his wife Kristen from Bucksport, Maine; and Tim Fitch, alongside his wife Sarah of Rodanthe, North Carolina. As a proud grandfather, affectionately known as “Tata” and “Pee-Paw,” he enjoyed the joy of four grandchildren: Rebecca, Ethan, Daniel, and Jonathan, who were certainly bright spots in his life.

T. J. also maintained strong family ties with his sister, Karin Tyrrell, and brother-in-law Jimmie from East Windsor, Connecticut. His brothers, Ronald Slater of Windsor Locks, Connecticut; Paul Slater and his wife Duvit from Kansas; and David Slater of South Royalton, Vermont, will also miss him dearly.

A Celebration of Life

The community has organized a celebration of Tom’s life to honor his generous spirit. The gathering will be held on Thursday, July 14, at 2 p.m. at Bethany United Methodist Church in Wanchese. Friends and family are encouraged to join together in remembering a man who gave so much to his community. Following the service, there will be a fellowship gathering in the Hall—a space Tom surely would have enjoyed as he connected with friends and shared stories.

Tom will be laid to rest in a private service at the Cudworth Cemetery in Wanchese. For those wanting to pay tribute, donations can be made in his memory to Bethany United Methodist Church, with the address provided for contributions.

Support for the Slater Family

The arrangements for Tom’s farewell are being managed by Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks. Community members are encouraged to share their condolences and memories to celebrate the impact he made. Though Tom has left this earth, his legacy of kindness and service will continue to inspire those who were lucky enough to know him.