Thomas G. Faulds

Thomas G. Faulds, 84, died peacefully on June 9, 2026 in Columbia, SC. A dedicated patriot, decorated veteran, and visionary insurance executive Tom lived a life defined by duty, honor, and steadfast dedicated to his family and country.

Tom was born in Swissvale, PA to William “Bud” Faulds (USN WWII) and Hazel Ritchey Faulds on December 16, 1941. After high school Tom accepted an appointment to the United States Military Academy at West Point, N.Y. where he graduated at the top of his class in 1964 earning Distinguished Cadet gold star honors all four years. Following his commission into the United States Army Tom served three tours of combat in Vietnam. During these tours Tom was awarded two Air Medals, two Bronze Stars and was cited with a Purple Heart for wounds received while under hostile fire during counter-insurgency operations at Cu Chi. He qualified as a U.S. Army Ranger, Paratrooper, and was awarded the combat Air Crew Wings in 1965 while flying in over 50 combat air assault missions in Vietnam.

Upon transitioning from active duty with the rank of Captain, Tom brought the same strategic discipline, intellectual nimbleness, and tactical decisiveness to the corporate world. Upon receiving his MBA from the University of South Carolina Tom worked for over four decades at BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina. During his career with BlueCross Tom was primarily responsible for BlueCross’ entry into the TRICARE contractor market, introduction of managed care services in South Carolina, and for the company’s reputation for administrative services excellence. Tom retired from BlueCross as President and COO in 2007.

Tom was inducted into the Darla Moore School of Business Leadership Hall of Fame and was recognized as Distinguished Alumnus of the Year in 1999. Over the course of his retirement Tom contributed his expertise, time and energy to the Moore School serving on the Board of Trustees as a Trustee Emeriti.

As a lifetime learner, military historian and biblical scholar Tom enjoyed sharing his insights and knowledge with his children and grandchildren, leading bible study discussions at St. John’s Episcopal in Columbia, and holding court with friends and fellow veterans he met along the way.

Throughout his life Tom was dedicated to physical fitness and wellness spending hours upon hours at the gym or in the pool. He was often found devouring medical journals, reviewing online fitness and healthcare forums, and listening to anyone he perceived to be an expert on living a long, healthy productive life.

Tom is survived by his wife of 60 years, Gloria, and their three sons Thomas Faulds (Kris) of Columbia, SC; Brian Faulds (Candy) of Florence, SC; Travis Faulds (Lisa) of Columbia, SC; and his nine grandchildren.

A private memorial service will be held at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Columbia, SC. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the University of South Carolina Brain Health Network.

“Well Done. Be thou at Peace.”