Thomas Ernest Chaffin, III

Thomas “Tom” Ernest Chaffin III, 82, passed away on May 10, 2026, held close by those who loved him most.

Born on August 31, 1943, Tom was the son of Thomas E. Chaffin Jr. and Louise Schneider Chaffin. He grew up in Richmond, Virginia, and, as a young man, proudly answered the call to serve his country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. His patriotism remained an important part of who he was throughout his life.

Following his military service, Tom earned his bachelor’s degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and spent much of his career in restaurant management. After years of hard work and dedication in the industry, he retired from Bill's Barbecue, in Richmond, Virginia.

On November 10, 1979, Tom married the love of his life, Linda. Through their marriage, Tom gained not only a wife he adored, but a family that became deeply woven into his life over the decades. Becoming a family man took Tom on a life-changing journey, and in later years, nowhere was that more evident than in the joy he found as a grandfather. His grandchildren became his pride and joy, and those who knew him in later years knew a man whose heart had grown immeasurably through loving them.

Tom was known for his unmistakable stars-and-stripes suspenders, his fierce loyalty, and the twinkle of humor behind his sometimes gruff exterior. Beneath the curmudgeonly charm was a generous, protective, and supportive man who cared fiercely for his friends, neighbors, and family. He formed friendships everywhere he went and leaves behind many who will miss his stories, laughter, and steadfast presence.

An avid antique car enthusiast, Tom spent countless happy hours with Linda in the antique car community, proudly showing their 1957 Chevrolet, “Pinky.” He was a member of the Virginia Street Rods club and loved spending time at the racetrack with his dear friend, Roy Hendrick..

Tom had a remarkable connection with animals, earning affectionate teasing from loved ones for the way creatures seemed naturally drawn to him. Deer gathered in his yard, birds crowded his feeders, stray cats somehow found permanent refuge under his care, and nearly every dog he met received a biscuit from one of his pockets. More than one very good boy even found a place on Tom’s Christmas shopping list.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Ann.

Tom’s memory will be treasured by his beloved wife, Linda; Jennifer (Gary), Jeff (Jody), his grandchildren Dean (Erin), Blake, Joey, Cal, Liam, Joyana, Jonny, and Josie; his niece Helene (David), nephew Edward (Haysook), and grandnephew Lewis.

 There will be a memorial service honoring Tom’s life at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at Bennett and Barden Funeral Home, 3215 Anderson Highway, Powhatan, Virginia. Interment will take place at the Virginia Veterans Cemetery in Amelia at a later date. In lieu of flowers, you may honor Tom’s memory with a donation to the Richmond Animal League.