Thomas and Gretchen Giesey

Thomas “Tom” Giesey November 21, 1938 – January 18, 2025 

Gretchen (Schilling) Giesey August 10, 1938 – June 26, 2024

Thomas “Tom” Giesey, 86, and his beloved wife, Gretchen (Schilling) Giesey, 86, both of Evans, Georgia, passed away over the past seven months.

Tom was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Wilbur Edward Giesey and Dorothy Held, and spent his early years in York, Pennsylvania. A proud graduate of Bethany College in West Virginia, Tom followed in his father’s footsteps, pursuing a career at Goodyear Tire Company. As a salesman, Tom traveled the world, forging lifelong friendships and leaving a mark wherever he went. One of Tom’s greatest passions was golf, a love he shared with his family from a young age. He played on his high school and college golf teams and the game remained an important part of his life throughout his years. Whether on the course with family or friends, Tom’s enthusiasm for the game was evident, and his competitive spirit never waned.

Gretchen was born in Dallas, Texas to Otis Alphonse Schilling (aka Red) and Martha (Smith) Schilling. She was the second of four children and her family moved to Akron, Ohio, in 1948. Tom and Gretchen’s paths crossed in Akron because Tom’s grandfather lived on the same street as Gretchen. Their relationship blossomed over time and they married on November 26, 1961, beginning a lifelong partnership centered on love, service, and community.

A cherished story from Gretchen’s childhood speaks to her charm and wit. When she was young, her family went to the grocery store and left Gretchen waiting in the car. She struck up a conversation with a man in the neighboring car and told him it was her “birthday today” and that her parents had forgotten. The next day, the kind man showed up at their home with a birthday cake. Gretchen’s parents were shocked to learn of her ruse but couldn’t help but laugh at her resourcefulness.

Throughout their marriage, Tom and Gretchen traveled extensively in the U.S., Europe, and Africa. One of their fondest memories was their time in Johannesburg, South Africa. They became second family to a young girl, whose father was ill, with Gretchen preparing her excellent meals for him while Tom entertained the children with stories and laughter. Their tradition of sharing Gretchen’s famous chocolate fudge with mischievous monkeys at the game reserve became a cherished memory that has lived on in the hearts of all who were there.

Though Tom and Gretchen did not have children of their own, their home was always full of love, and they shared a deep connection with their extended family. They were particularly involved in the higher education of their loved ones, always supporting their family members’ academic and personal endeavors. The Giesey’s also gave generously to other important causes such as homeless children needing safe shelter, young adults seeking education and employment, and their churches through their travels. 

Gretchen was predeceased by her three siblings: her older sister, Anne Morey and her younger brothers Otis (Tim) and Eugene Schilling. She is survived by many nieces, nephews, and other loved ones who will always remember her for her warmth, generosity, and loving spirit.

Tom is survived by his older brother, Paul Giesey, and many extended family members and friends.

Tom and Gretchen will be dearly missed by all who knew them for their warmth, generosity, and enduring love for each other and their family.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, February 21, 2025, at 1:00 PM at St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church in Grovetown, Georgia. Inurnment will follow in St. Teresa's Columbarium.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Tom and Gretchen’s memory to a charity of your choice.