Gerald Tong

Gerald Wayne Tong, 79, of Copperas Cove, Texas, passed away in his home on February 18, 2021.

Gerald was born on July 15, 1941, in Ogden, Arkansas to Will and Mildred Tong.  He grew up in the Corpus Christi area and attended local schools. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1959 and upon completing basic training he returned to Corpus Christi to marry his high school sweetheart, Carole Walden.

While still active in the U.S. Army he obtained a bachelor’s degree from Arkansas State.  He continued his education later and obtained a master’s degree from Tarleton State University.

Gerald was a veteran of the Vietnam War and was awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and many others. He served 20 years in the U.S. Army and retired at the rank of Major in Copperas Cove.

Gerald began his second career as a teacher at Copperas Cove High School where he taught in the Math department.  There he taught for 22 years and also served as principal for night school when needed.

Besides spending time with his family, Gerald was an avid outdoorsman.  He loved to go fishing and camping, but perhaps his greatest joy, outside of his family, was his beloved Copperas Cove Bulldogs. He started by volunteering to help officiate games by running the chains and working the concessions stands during home games. Gerald was also active in the Quarterback Club, holding the position of Vice President for several years.

For close to 20 years, Gerald, along with his friends; Al and Marlene Smith, Ken Blalcok, Don Donaldson and Dick Spargo, attended every game.  This included home, away, and playoffs. Distance and weather conditions could not keep this group from supporting their team.

Gerald’s first priority in life was to ensure his family was taken care of.  He never refused to help. He was always there; many times, before being asked. He will be missed by both family and friends.

Gerald is preceded in death by his parents, Mildred and Will Tong; sister, Virginia Johnson; and son-in-law, Lynn Wolverton.

Gerald is survived by his wife of 60 years – Carole Tong.  His children, daughters Terrie Wolverton of Belton, Barbara and Sam Longoria of San Antonio, Tina and Michael Carter of Copperas Cove and son, Jerry Tong of Dallas.  He is also survived by brothers, Dale and Norine Tong and Willie and Sammy Tong; sisters, Linda and Michael St. George and Kathy and Bob Francen.  Gerald leaves 8 grandchildren; Jarrod Wolverton, Kammie Dusek, Whitney Burch, James Carter, Bryan Carter, Abel Longoria, Jacob Longoria, and Isaac Longoria.  He also left 8 great-grandchildren – Zan, Chloe, Faryn, and Quinn Dusek; Antonio Wolverton, Ayden Andrade-Wolverton, Adalyn Andrade-Wolverton, and Calvin Carter.

In keeping with preventing the spread of the Covid-19 virus, the family will hold a small private service.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Parkinson’s Research Foundation in Gerald’s name.