Thomas Pilkerton

Thomas “Tom” Pilkerton, 67, went into the arms of Jesus on Wednesday, May 22, 2024. He was born on July 20, 1956 in Birmingham, Alabama. Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Aubrey Fleet Pilkerton, Sr. and Ann Marie Flemming Pilkerton; and brother, Aubrey Fleet Pilkerton, Jr. He is survived by his wife of 17 years, Melanie Pilkerton; children, Daniel Edward Pilkerton, Eric Thomas Pilkerton (Brooklyn), Dylan Mark Hardy (Amanda), Amber Savannah Hardy; grandson, Brady Mack Pilkerton; siblings, twin brother, Timothy Pilkerton (Katie) and Patricia Ann Pilkerton, and James Kelly Pilkerton (Linda); and numerous nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

Tom attended John Carroll High School, where he played football and ran track. He was on the State Championship teams for both football and track. Tom’s earliest ambition was to be a coach, which he realized for a short time before embarking on other endeavors. He had a wonderful work ethic. which made him successful. He appreciated all that he was blessed with.

Tom’s special achievements that he was proud of were the ‘hole in one’ with a putter at the age of 25; his trip to South Africa, several lucky days in the casinos; and the state championship in football in track during his senior year of high school.

Tom enjoyed woodworking (especially unique crosses to give to others), doing yard work, coin collecting, and a good cigar. He loved his family dearly, and shared a special bond with his loving wife. When asked what he would want people to remember about him, he said, “That I was fair and honest and had a good sense of humor.” Tom made Melanie laugh every day.

During the holidays Tom and Melanie would stand in as Santa and Mrs. Claus at various homes, parties, and church and civic events. Which also included a yearly Christmas family lunch at the Fish Market, where all of his great nieces and nephews were his elves who helped distribute candy canes throughout the restaurant.

The family would like to say a special thank you for the wonderful care that Tom received from Dr. Joelle Hamilton and her staff, as well as Expect Hospice Care.

The visitation will be on Tuesday, May 28, 2024 from 12pm until 2pm at Johns Ridout’s Elmwood Chapel. A Celebration of Tom’s life will follow at 2pm. He will be laid to rest by his family at Elmwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making a donation in Tom’s memory to the Church at Cahaba Bend in Helena, Alabama or your favorite charity.