Thomas "Tom" Van Winkle, 76, of North Charleston, South Carolina, entered into eternal rest on Saturday, July 4, 2026. He shared 57 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Jean Van Winkle, whose love and partnership were the foundation of his life. A devoted husband, proud veteran, hardworking provider, and faithful servant to his community, Tom lived a life marked by generosity, compassion, and a gift for bringing people together.

A Celebration of Life honoring Tom will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at Deep River Church of God. Military honors will be rendered during the service in recognition of his 20 years of honorable service in the United States Air Force. Interment at Beaufort National Cemetery will take place at a later date. Arrangements are by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., Northwoods Chapel.

Born on November 8, 1949, in Dayton, Ohio, Tom was the son of the late Gella Lee Van Winkle and Eva Marie Van Winkle. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for 20 years, dedicating two decades to serving the nation he loved.

Following his military retirement, Tom continued serving others through his work and his passions. As the store manager of the West Ashley location of Mt. Pleasant Seafood, he became known for his knowledge, warm personality, and genuine love of seafood. He especially enjoyed catering oyster roasts and Lowcountry boils, believing that some of life's best moments happened around a table with family, friends, and great food. Never one to slow down, he later joined the team at Piggly Wiggly, where he continued sharing his expertise in the meat and seafood department.

Tom's servant's heart extended far beyond his career. He faithfully volunteered at the local men's homeless shelter, where he often prepared his famous pulled pork barbecue for those in need. For Tom, sharing a meal was one of the simplest and most meaningful ways to show love.

Known affectionately as "Bubba" to his family, Tom was a steady presence whose kindness, humor, and generous spirit made everyone feel welcome. Above all, he cherished his family. He was a loving husband to Jean and a proud father to Gina Hurn of North Charleston and Melinda Stewart (Andrew) of Charleston. He found immense joy in being "Bubba" to his grandchildren, Michael Hurn (Heather), Sean Hurn (Danielle Calvert), Jacob Stewart, and Krista Stewart. One of his greatest blessings was spending time with his beloved great-grandson, Tanner Hurn, whose visits always brought a smile to his face.

Tom is also survived by his sister, Dorothy Ann Anglin (Marc) of Mount Dora, Florida.

In addition to his parents, Tom was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Ellen Van Winkle, and his brother, Albert Van Winkle.

Tom will be remembered for his unwavering love of family, his dedication to serving others, his military service, his legendary pulled pork barbecue, his seafood feasts, and the countless lives he touched through his kindness and generosity. His legacy is one of faith, service, and love—a life well lived and deeply cherished.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Deep River Church of God, 8190 Dorchester Road, North Charleston, SC 29418, or to Charleston Animal Society, 2455 Remount Road, North Charleston, SC 29406.

Condolences and memorial messages may be shared with the family by visiting www.jhenrystuhr.com.