Thomas Alexander Waterson, age 85, of Cherryville, passed away Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at Atrium Health – Kings Mountain. He was born September 25, 1940, in Lincoln County to the late John Alexander and Edith Mae Shull Waterson.

Thomas was a man of God; he was a devoted Christian who loved God and his family more than anything else. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force. While in the Air Force, Tom enjoyed traveling the world, his main passion in life was flying. Tom was a collector who had a variety of collections, including stamps. He worked for BellSouth Telecommunications for many years and was awarded the certification “Principles of Digital Transmission” in 1993. Tom was a man who enjoyed a simple life, including watching animals. He was a sportsman; he loved fishing and hunting. Tom was talented in carpentry and baking. He had a charitable heart, donating to many organizations, and had a soft spot for children. His chihuahua, Peanut, was his best friend and sidekick.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Brenda Ann Darty Waterson; nephews, Alex Waterson, and Kevin Choate; and sister, Frances Choate.

Survivors include his stepdaughter, Kimberly Hughes, of Gastonia; stepson, Scott Hughes (Vicki Deubler) of Kennesaw, GA; grandchildren, Jonathan Hughes, and Krista Barnhorn (Bobby); great grandchildren, Jayden Hughes, and Amelia Barnhorn; siblings, Barbara Wright, and Lanny Waterson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at Gaston Memorial Park, with military honors provided by American Legion Post #100.

Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com