Truman Harwood Tench

Truman Harwood Tench, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2024, at Dunlop House Assisted Living in Colonial Heights, Virginia, following a period of declining health. Just two months earlier, he celebrated his 85th birthday surrounded by family. Truman will be laid to rest alongside his family in the historic Blandford Cemetery.

Born on September 21, 1939, in Hopewell, Virginia, Truman was the son of Leroy Tench and Gladys Dorset. His childhood was marked by both joy and loss; at the age of nine, he tragically lost his father in a boating accident on the James River. Later, his mother married John 'Bud' Walters, and the family moved to Chester, Virginia, during Truman's teenage years. Among his happiest memories were the times spent with Boy Scout Troop 123, where he earned the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout in 1955.

After graduating from Hopewell High School, Truman pursued a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Virginia, graduating in 1962. He began his career with Gulf Oil in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, before relocating to Gretna, Louisiana, where he worked at a BP refinery outside New Orleans until he retired.

A lifelong learner, Truman earned multiple advanced degrees, including an MBA from Loyola University, a Master of Science in Taxation from Washington School of Law, and a Master of Science in Financial Services from The American College. He also held numerous professional certifications and licenses, including CPA, Professional Engineer, Real Estate Broker, Securities Dealer, and Insurance Broker.

Beyond his professional achievements, Truman was an avid runner and a devoted caretaker of his beloved cats. For years, he took pride in maintaining his cherished blue VW Bug. Truman also found fulfillment in helping others. Though he rarely sought recognition, his generosity touched many lives. He brightened Christmas morning for families in need, funded dental and medical treatments for children and elderly, supported surgery for friends' pets, and assisted with car repairs bills.

After the passing of his stepfather Bud in 2006, Truman returned to Chester to live in the home where he grew up. There, he reconnected with old friends and family and became an active member of the First United Methodist Church of Hopewell until mobility challenges made it difficult for him to attend.

Truman is survived by his sister, Marcia Tench Kirtley, and her three sons; his daughter, Heather Hinkle Hill, and her family, of Devon, Pennsylvania, including four grandchildren. He will also be dearly missed by his cousin, Susan Denny; close friends, Mary and Jay; and many others.

The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m., on Friday, December 6, 2024, at the Hopewell Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home. A graveside service will follow at 2:00 p.m., at Blandford Cemetery.