Obituary of Thomas Arthur Wallace

Thomas A. Wallace, 71, of Elmira, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2024, with his family by his side. He is predeceased by parents Thomas Arthur and Eletha (Stoltz) Wallace, and sister Kathleen W. Shepard. Tom is survived by his wife of 40 years, Julia B. Wallace, daughters Lara McFarland, Tricia (Jim) Dennison, son Max (Danielle) Wallace, sister Mary (Mike) Bridges, grandchildren Ryan (Brittany), Matthew, Hannah (Kieran), Leah, and Eletha, great-grandchildren Rory and Harris, as well as loving nephews, nieces, their children, and many friends. 

Tom was born in Salamanca, NY. After growing up in Corning, NY, he completed his bachelor’s degree in Psychology at SUNY Stony Brook and a subsequent Master of Social Work at Marywood College in Scranton, PA. It was in graduate school that he met the love of his life, Julia. They were married on September 17, 1983, and celebrated at Hill Top Inn and Restaurant. 

Tom and Julia settled in Elmira where he began his over 30-year career in mental health, holding leadership roles at the Elmira Psychiatric Center, in Chemung Country as the Mental Hygiene Commissioner, and ultimately serving for thirteen years as the Director of the Office of Mental Health for Western NY. As a Commander in the Naval Medical Services Corps, he worked in disaster preparedness, training he would continue to utilize as a disaster mental health worker for the Red Cross on trips to the Gulf Coast and Saipan. A history buff with an encyclopedic memory, he was heavily involved with the Chemung County Historical Society, most recently serving as the President of the Board of Trustees.  

Tom loved spending Thanksgivings camping in Allegany State Park with his extended family as well as hiking trips with Max and Jim. After retirement, Tom and Julia had the opportunity to travel to Cuba, China, Scotland and Egypt, but many of their most beloved memories happened at the family cottage on Seneca Lake, where he taught Max how to sail. Tom will be remembered for his quick wit, calm demeanor, supportive nature, and will be endlessly missed by those who knew him. 

Visiting hours will take place on Monday, July 22, 2024 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at McInerny Funeral Home, 502 W Water Street, Elmira, with a private family service to follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Parkinson’s Foundation, the Chemung County Historical Society, or Social Connections Club of Elmira. Celebration of Life to be planned for a later date.