MSG (Ret) Tom Nowlin

Thomas Wesley “Tom” Nowlin passed away November 25, 2009 at his home in Waynesville, Missouri, at the age of 65 years, 1 month and 13 days. Tom was born October 12, 1944 in Houston, Texas. He was one of three children born to the union of Claudia Joy (Morgan) and Thomas Robertson Nowlin. Tom was baptized and confirmed in the All Saints Catholic Church, Houston. In 1963, Tom entered the U.S. Army, serving his country in the Vietnam War. During his military career, Tom was awarded several medals, commendations and other awards, some of which include the Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal (7th award), National Defense Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon (3), Army Service Ribbon, Non Commissioned Officer Personal Development Ribbon (2), Expert Qualification Badge M16, Vietnam Citation of Gallantry w/palm, DVR Badge, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Commendation Medal, DS ID Badge and the Meritorious Service Medal. Master Sergeant Nowlin retired from active duty service in 1984. During the war, Tom spent time in Thailand, where he met and fell in love with Paum U. Youngyuen. They were married on October 12, 1967. Upon returning to the United States, Tom and Paum were again united in a civil ceremony on March 8, 1968 in Houston, Texas. Tom and Paum were blessed with two sons, Robbert Ivey and Roger Andrew. Tom retired from the military at Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri, where he made his home until his passing. He and Paum owned and operated Paum’s Bridal and Formal Shop in St. Robert, which Paum still runs. Tom was very gifted at upholstery work, and working on antique cars. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing and hunting. He and Paum loved ballroom and square dancing, as well as going to the casinos and playing slot machines. Tom will be remembered for being quite a jokester, and having a wonderful sense of humor. Tom will be sadly missed by his wife: Paum Nowlin of the home; his mother: Claudia Joy Votes of San Antonio, TX; two sons: SSG (Ret) Robbert Ivey Nowlin of Columbia, SC and SGT Roger Andrew Nowlin of Broomfield, CO; one sister: Mary Jo Johnson of San Antonio, TX; one brother: Kenny Dumas of Houston, TX; three grandchildren: Brittany, Katelynn and Jayden; several other relatives and friends. Tom was preceded in death by his father. Time of visitation was held from 2:00 to 5:00 P.M. Sunday, November 29, 2009 in the Memorial Chapels and Crematory with a time of remembrance held during the visitation with Chaplain Lindy Hardwick officiating. Several friends and family recalled their wonderful memories of Tom. Arrangements were under the direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory.

MSG (Ret) Tom Nowlin

October 12, 1944 - November 25, 2009