
Over the weekend, like many of you, I received word of Thomas “Tom” Meachum’s passing. While I was aware of his illness and knew the outcome was bleak, the news was still somber. He was truly one of Howard County’s most steady and dedicated community servants, and the consummate business professional.
Tom was one of the first people I met when I came to Howard County, as he chaired the search committee I interviewed with for the Chamber Presidential position. Over the next seven-plus years, I would work alongside him in board and volunteer capacities.
I always found him to be consistent, prepared, and forthright. Most importantly, he was a calming influence and someone you wanted leading a committee or special project to ensure all sides and viewpoints are heard. It was fascinating to watch him manage a group of highly accomplished leaders. He had an innate ability to observe nonverbal cues and diplomatically call on you if you were attending, but not sharing your opinions or engaging in the dialogue.
I witnessed firsthand what level of service and dedication Tom gave to the nonprofits he served and can imagine that his clients and law partners received that same level of quality and commitment. Tom Meachum will be missed, but certainly not forgotten.
The Chamber Board of Directors and staff share in the Howard County community’s loss and our prayers and thoughts go out to his loving and dedicated family and his colleagues at Carney, Kelehan, Bresler, & Scher.