Steve Moore Watkins
Tom and I met during inventory at Record Bar in the Tallahassee Mall in 1981. We became music brothers. He began visiting Vinyl Fever where I worked there in the early 80's. Tom had a special ability to be present when life had stressful challenges. Once, while living at St. Pete beach while in law school, I was downstairs washing my car and I looked up to see Tom walking by on the beach. I joined him. He was having an especially difficult time in a relationship at the time. Another time, I was having issues in a relationship and needed space. So I went to the CD store in Tampa. I looked up from the bins, and there Tom was to provide timely counsel. He was always there when I needed his counsel. What a good man and wonderful being. We shared many Wanee festival weekends and concerts and he was always a joy to be with. I loved his laugh even when he it was at my expense he having called into question some action or attitude of mine. He was truly centered in joy and loved sharing this music in his life. The day before he passed, I had a dream that I was visiting a friend whose wife was having surgery at the hospital. After visiting with the friend, I knew I needed to go see Tom in the hospital but not know where to find him. But who showed up to show me the way? Tom himself, and it did not seem strange at all that he had been there to guide me to his hospital room. I felt Tom's presence strongly that next day and when I went to see King Gizzard and the Wizard Lizard a few days later in Cologne, I felt Tom with me. I will miss Tom's physical presence but know that he lives on in the heart's of those who loved him most. Blessings to those who were close to Tom in this life.