Thomas (Tom) Herman DeWitt, of Claremore, Okla., age 81, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2024, surrounded by love and the cherished memories of a life shared with his high school sweetheart, Phyllis (McKinney) DeWitt. From the moment they met, their love story grew into a beautiful marriage of 60 years, filled with deep affection, mutual respect, and a bond that withstood the test of time.

To all who knew him, Tom was simply a good man—defined by his integrity, kindness and generosity. He touched countless lives with his quiet strength and gentle spirit. Throughout his life, Tom remained a passionate learner, constantly seeking to expand his mind and share that wisdom with others. He constantly challenged himself and embraced every opportunity to grow intellectually which was evident by testing and achieving a membership in Mensa.

Tom will be remembered not only for his sharp intellect and dry sense of humor, but also for his life enriched by adventure as a motorcycle, Jaguar and travel enthusiast. Tom and Phyllis embraced every opportunity to explore new places, cultures and experiences. Together, they traveled by auto across England and Europe, by motorcycle across the United States, Canada and New Zealand, and by any available means across Africa. They found joy in discovering the wonders of the world and sharing those experiences with friends and family.

Tom believed in the value of hard work leaving behind a legacy of strength, courage and service. He was a graduate of Oklahoma State University with a bachelor's degree in Zoology. His post graduate studies at the University of Oklahoma were interrupted by his enlistment in the U.S. Army, Artillery Division. Tom served overseas in Germany and was joined by Phyllis. A proud Veteran, Tom served our country with honor and dedication, embodying the true spirit of patriotism.

Tom was born September 8, 1942, in Mount Vernon, Ill. to Herman W. DeWitt and Clarice (Williams) DeWitt. The family relocated to Vinita, Okla., where Tom graduated from Vinita High School and married Phyllis (McKinney) DeWitt on August 22, 1964.

Post college and his service in the U.S. Army, Tom joined Endo Laboratories, later DuPont, as a pharmaceutical representative for 13 years. During this time, he supported Phyllis' pursuit of her juris doctorate from the University of Tulsa's School of Law, while his passion for exotic automobiles grew. He built and opened DeWitt Auto Restoration in Tulsa, Okla., which he operated for more than 40 years.

Tom's national professional reputation grew as an expert in classic Jaguar restoration while showcasing his own his 1971 E-Type V-12 Jaguar for several years on the state Jaguar Concours d' Elegance. As a result, he twice received the regional and state Jaguar Concours d' Elegance trophy.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Ann (DeWitt) Campo and William W. DeWitt, U.S. Army Lt. Col., (Ret.). He is survived by his loving wife, Phyllis (McKinney) DeWitt and many extended family members.

Tom will be remembered for being ever the courteous gentleman. He would bid his friends and family goodbye while asking them not to grieve more than necessary as "life is for the living." Tom will be deeply missed but remembered always for his strength of character and the lasting impact on all who had the privilege to know him.

A Memorial Service to honor and celebrate the life of Tom DeWitt will be held on Sunday, October 27, 2024, at 2:00 pm at 300 E. Reconciliation Way, Tulsa, Oklahoma. Please join us in paying tribute to a life well-lived.

Service location: 300 E. Reconciliation Way (formerly Brady Street) is located between Detroit Ave. and Elgin Ave. It is adjacent to ONEOK Field in Downtown Tulsa. Parking is available.