Thomas Andrew Wilton, Jr., 66, of Richland Springs entered into eternal rest on April 28, 2011 at Brownwood Regional Medical Center. He was surrounded by his family and close friends. Memorial services are pending with Howell Doran Funeral Home in San Saba.

T.A., as he was known to his many friends and family, was born in Brady, TX on January 17, 1945. He was a graduate of Brady High School and a 1968 graduate of Texas A&M University where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education. He was a proud Aggie, a true believer in the Aggie Spirit, and was often heard saying those famous Aggie words "once an Aggie, always an Aggie." After graduating from Texas A&M, T.A. married his college sweetheart and moved to Marlin where his education career as a Biology and an Agriculture teacher spanned 27 years. T.A. spent these years mentoring the youth of Marlin, participating in livestock shows, and various programs for his AG students. T. A. was instrumental in the formation of the Young Farmers Association which encouraged and supported all young farmers of the Marlin area. T. A. was a simple man who had simple pleasures in this world, "small in stature, yet larger than life." His greatest joys were spending time reminiscing with friends and family, watching Aggie football games, playing his weekly domino game, and working on his home that he humorously named his "TAWZ Mahal."

T.A. was a man that touched many lives and lived life to the fullest. He radiated a kind and generous heart, had a sense of humor like no other, never met a stranger, and could light up a room. He was definitely one of a kind. He will be sorely missed by all of those who knew and loved him.

T.A. was preceded in death by his son, Jody Reese Wilton of Marlin; his grandparents, John & Mollie Wilton of Richland Springs; his parents, T.A. Wilton, Sr. and Florence Wilton of Brady.

Leaving behind to cherish his memories are his sons, Cody Wilton and fiance Kathy of Marlin; Cory Wilton and wife Ashley of Riesel; his daughter ,Jana Farquhar and husband Matt; of Waco, one grandaughter, Kaylin Reese Wilton of Riesel; a brother, Kenneth Wilton and wife Mary Ann of Brady; sister, Pam MacFarland and husband R.L. of Hutto; along with numerous nieces and nephews. The family would also like to thank Teddy and Trisha Grabarkewitz and Charlie and Pattie Fowler all of Richland Springs for the years of love and friendship they showed to T.A.

Respecting his wishes, the family will have his body cremated and his ashes spread along the creek where he spent so many happy hours as a child.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to be made in T.A.’s honor to the Ronald McDonald House, a place