Tom Stenson Obituary, Death – Authorities have confirmed that a 75-year-old man who was reported missing on Wednesday evening has been found dead in the water near Beech Drive in Union Hall, Virginia.
The Franklin County Communications Center received a 911 call around 7 p.m. on Wednesday regarding the disappearance of the elderly man. In response, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office launched a coordinated search effort involving multiple agencies. Assisting in the search were Franklin County Public Safety, Smith Mountain Lake Marine Fire Rescue, Virginia Conservation Police, and the Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office.
Rescue teams conducted an extensive search of the area, focusing on Smith Mountain Lake near Union Hall. After several hours, they located a body in the water. Authorities later identified the deceased as Tom Stenson, a resident of McGaheysville, Virginia.
Following the recovery, Stenson’s body was taken to the Medical Examiner’s Office for a full autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. Officials stated that, based on initial findings, there are no signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances. However, the investigation will remain ongoing until the autopsy results are finalized.
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office expressed its condolences to Stenson’s family and loved ones, acknowledging the sadness and difficulty of the situation. They also extended gratitude to the various agencies that participated in the search and recovery efforts.
At this time, no further details about the events leading up to Stenson’s disappearance have been released. It is unclear how he ended up in the water or whether he was engaged in any recreational activity before the incident. Authorities are continuing to gather information and are expected to release additional updates once more facts are confirmed through the investigation and autopsy.
Community members in the Union Hall area were shaken by the news, as searches on Smith Mountain Lake are rare but always treated with urgency. The coordinated response and quick deployment of marine and public safety units demonstrated the seriousness with which authorities handled the missing person case.
Stenson’s death adds to the growing number of water-related incidents during the summer months, a time when lakes and recreational areas see increased activity. Local officials often urge the public to exercise caution around water, especially for older individuals or those with health issues that could make them more vulnerable.
For now, friends and family are mourning the loss of Tom Stenson, described by many as a kind and gentle man. His passing has left a void in his home community of McGaheysville and among those who knew him around the lake.
The Sheriff’s Office has assured the public that the investigation is being handled thoroughly and that all necessary steps are being taken to understand what happened. While no foul play is suspected, officials are committed to learning the full details surrounding this tragic loss.