Tom Kim Munson, 70, of Chester passed away on Sunday, August 2, 2026. Born in Seoul, Korea on January 6, 1956, Tom came to the United States as an adopted child to the late Bertha Mae Hardy and Charles George Munson and grew up in Worcester, Massachusetts. Coming up through the School of Hard Knocks, he learned early on what it meant to stand on his own.

In May of 1976, Tom enlisted in the United States Army, a decision that launched an impressive 30-year military career. He specialized in food service logistics. His dedicated service included a deployment as a combat veteran during the Persian Gulf War. Over the years, Tom rose to the military’s highest enlisted rank, retiring in May 2006 as an E9 Sergeant Major. Even after retiring, Tom continued to support the mission as a defense logistics contractor.

Known as a staunch triple OG, no-BS mariner and called “Monk” by those who knew him best, Tom was respected by everyone that knew him. If Tom gave you his word, you could bank on it. He stayed connected to his brothers and sisters in arms through his involvement in the Sergeant Major Association at Fort Lee, his local VFW, and as a lifetime member of the Big Red One, 1st Infantry Division. He enjoyed fellowship at the Memorial Chapel in Fort Lee, Virginia.

He was a passionate cook who took joy in feeding family and friends, usually with the legendary sounds of Earth, Wind & Fire playing in the background. Above all else, he cherished the simple, quality moments spent with those he loved.

He is survived by his loving wife, Kum Cha Munson; daughter, Michelle Ann Munson; son, Charles George Munson II; granddaughter, Milan Annella Sanders; his pride and joy, the family dog, Ikaika; his Army brothers, Nicasio Diaz III, Jose Fontanez, Michael Mingle; and other extended family members and many friends.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, August 7, 2026 in the Virginia Veterans Cemetery at Amelia, 10300 Pridesville Rd, Amelia Court House, VA 23002. The family will receive friends from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Thursday evening, August 6, 2026 at the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2033 Boulevard. Online condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.