Paul Tom Thomas Eskridge

Paul Thomas “Tom” Eskridge passed away the morning of November 9, 2017, at his home in Bentonville, Virginia, after a twelve year battle with prostate cancer.

Tom was the cornerstone of his extended family. At over six feet seven inches tall, Tom’s towering physical appearance was overshadowed only by his kind and generous demeanor. His altruism extended beyond just economic support, as he shared his time, teachings, and guidance with many.

Tom was also known for his seemingly limitless patience and dedication to his family. Tom’s wife Virginia (Harris) (McNemar) Eskridge survives him, as does his brother Robert Lee, his sons Neil and Lee, stepchildren William “Patrick” McNemar, Glenn McNemar and Bonnie (McNemar) Harrison-Epstein, their spouses, sixteen grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, and many others who all referred to Tom as "Pop".

The son of Thomas Jefferson Eskridge and Inez Edith (Grim) Eskridge, he was born on September 3, 1940 and lived most of his life in Falls Church, Virginia, in the original house he grew up in, and subsequently purchased from his mom (Granny). Tom worked for Bruce Schlossberg for over 40 years in property management before retiring and moving to the Bentonville Christmas tree farm he created from land he purchased in 1984.

This farm brought together his extended family so that they might enjoy the rich outdoor life he loved. He, his children, grandchildren and friends planted Christmas trees, mowed, hunted and enjoyed nature on the farm. Later in life Tom, with the aid of his family, built his retirement home there.

From property management to grandfatherly guidance, Tom has always been there for people. One can easily envision him among the pine, fir and spruce trees in the morning fog, standing like an enormous stag, his progeny under his loving and watchful eye.

Services are planned for November 18, 2017 at 12pm, at National Funeral Home, 7482 Lee Highway Falls Church, VA.