Thomas Jackson Crickenberger II

Thomas Jackson “Tommy” Crickenberger II, 93, of Salem, VA, passed away Tuesday evening, November 25, 2025, after several years of declining health.

Born in Emporia, VA, to Juel and George Crickenberger, Tommy graduated from Emporia High School before joining the United States Army, serving during the Korean War. Part of his service included parachuting with the 101st Airborne Division. After six years of honorable service, he used the GI Bill to attend Ferrum College, where he met the love of his life, Wanda Bowman Crickenberger. They married in 1958 and remained devoted companions for 65 years, until her passing in February of this year.

Tommy had a remarkable talent for carving with a pocket knife, creating intricate and beautiful whittled Santas and birds. He was also the proud original owner of his 1968 Ford Mustang, earning multiple accolades at car shows throughout the region.

Tommy will be remembered for his kindness and gentle strength. He was a steady, calming presence—quiet in nature but deeply influential in the lives of his children and grandchildren. His patience, humility, and unwavering love shaped generations of his family, leaving them with an enduring example of integrity, compassion, and quiet resilience.

He is survived by his son, Jack Crickenberger (Stephanie); daughter, Melissa Robertson (Mark); grandchildren, Tabitha Robertson (Jeff), Jackson Crickenberger (Carla), McKinley Robertson (Jenny), and Jacob Crickenberger (Tesha); and seven great-grandchildren, Elise, Madelyn, Cora, Maidyn, Lorelei, Nikolai, and Vera. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Wanda; and his twin brother, Charlie.

The family extends special thanks to Timmya Cotton for the care and companionship she offered Tommy over these past months, and to the ICU and hospice teams at the Salem Veterans Affairs Medical Center for their compassionate and attentive care.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Ferrum College Alumni Fund at the Ferrum College website.

Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.