SFC Thomas A. Rhubottom, U.S. Army (Ret.) Thomas Alvin Rhubottom passed away at the age of 82 as a result of complications from Parkinson’s disease on October 8, 2015.
At the end of his life he was surrounded by his loving family.
Tom was born in St. Petersburg, Florida on October 27, 1932. He joined the U. S. Army in 1950 and was a career Army Engineer. He served two tours in Viet Nam and was awarded the Bronze Star for each tour. During his second tour, he was embedded as an advisor to a South Vietnamese Construction Battalion. In addition to service in Viet Nam, he was stationed in Germany twice and in Okinawa.
In addition to the Bronze Star, he was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal and the Vietnam Technical Service Medal. He served his country with an unwavering sense of patriotism, professionalism, and pride which he carried with him throughout his life.
While stationed in Germany, Tom met the love of his life, Martha Helene Huschka, whom he married in June 1955. They had three daughters, later bought a home on Westport Lane in Lake Ridge and called Woodbridge, Virginia their home for more than 35 years. After retiring from the Army in 1970, he became an Officer for the U.S. Capitol Police providing security for the House of Representatives.
He retired from his second career after 22 years. As a police officer in the Nation’s Capital, Tom stayed connected to Politics, one of his many passions. He was a lifelong Republican! Tom devoted his life and energy to taking care of his family and making them happy.
He was happiest sitting in his favorite easy chair, throwing a tennis ball to Kelly, his golden retriever, or drinking beer with his sons-in-law during Sunday football games, and taking care of his home or tinkering with his cars. He was passionately devoted to the Washington Redskins.
Second only to his role as Dad and the fatherly pride he felt for his three daughters, was the role he played as “Opa” the name he was affectionately called by his grandchildren, John and Natalie. Whether it was being the voice behind a red, furry hand puppet named Elmo or teaching his grandkids the words to songs like “America the Beautiful,” he was the quintessential family man and enjoyed nothing more than spending time with his family. Tom loved his home and his neighborhood.
Generous and kind-hearted, he was quick to offer advice on a home maintenance project, help change a flat tire or lend a tool from his shed. His evening walks around Westport Lane provided his neighbors with comfort and will be missed. He is truly loved and will never be forgotten!
Tom was preceded in death by his parents William Hunt Rhubottom and Mary Louise (Sharpe]) and his oldest brother, James. He is survived by his wife of 60 years Martha [West Brandywine, PA]; his daughters Patricia Ann Rhubottom and her husband Brian Murphy [Berwyn, PA]; Diana Lynn and her husband Mark Horgan [Northborough, MA]; and Anita Louise and her husband Kenneth Nankervis [Annapolis, MD]; grandchildren, Natalie Nankervis [Annapolis, MD] and John Horgan, Lieutenant U. S. Navy [Mystic, CT]; and his brother Richard and wife Sally [Chehalis, WA].
Tom was buried on October 13, 2015 at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville, Pennsylvania. Donations in Tom’s memory can be made to the Coatesville VA Medical Center Voluntary Services – Hospice and Palliative Care Program, 1400 Black Horse Hill Road, Coatesville, PA 19320.
Recent Stories
Virginia Railway Express (VRE) CEO Rich Dalton announced his retirement at the VRE Operations Board meeting on Friday, June 20, 2025.
Extreme heat grips the region again this week, while election campaigns ramp up in Stafford and Manassas celebrates with fireworks, TV features, and a big community fair. Here’s what’s happening across Northern Virginia.
The Manassas City Council is preparing to present a new set of legislative priorities to state lawmakers during its annual Legislative Breakfast, scheduled for July 15, 2025, at the Manassas Museum.
After more than 20 years of dedicated service, Manassas Park officials honored City Attorney Dean Crowhurst during an emotional sendoff at the June 17 Governing Body meeting.
Go Ape, America’s leading aerial adventure park provider, is proud to unveil a revitalized experience across its iconic Zipline & Adventure Parks. This refresh goes beyond physical upgrades; it reflects a renewed mission to foster meaningful connections between people, nature, and self.
“Go Ape has always been about thrilling treetop adventures,” says Chrissy Very, Senior Director of Marketing. “Now, we’re redefining what it means to truly connect: through purpose-driven outdoor experiences that inspire courage, reflection, and joy.”
As access to public outdoor spaces becomes more limited, Go Ape steps in to bridge the gap with immersive, inclusive, and wellness-focused adventures for individuals, families, and groups.
Alt-rock legends Gin Blossoms are performing a FREE live show TONIGHT, Wednesday, June 11th at The Bullpen – and D.C., you’re invited.
Power to the Patients will be hosting Gin Blossoms for Special Performance at Congressional Baseball Game Pre-Party.
This unforgettable night under the summer sky features the band behind ‘90s classics like “Hey Jealousy,” “Found Out About You,” and “Follow You Down.” Expect a packed crowd, cold drinks, and killer energy.
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has
