Thomas Nicholson Cabell's Obituary
Thomas Nicholson "Tom" Cabell
March 27, 1948 - January 26, 2025
A celebration of the life of Thomas Nicholson "Tom" Cabell will be 11:00 a.m., Thursday, January 30, 2025 in the Rivercrest Chapel (13329 S. Memorial Dr., Bixby, OK).
Thomas Nicholson "Tom" Cabell was born on March 27, 1948, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to loving parents Murray and Helen (Nicholson) Cabell. From an early age, Tom was known for his tenacious spirit and adventurous heart. Enrolled in a Catholic school by his Episcopalian parents, he quickly learned to navigate life with resilience and humor, often standing alongside his protective older sister, Christine.
In his teenage years, the family relocated to St. Petersburg, Florida, where Tom attended Admiral Farragut Academy and excelled in academics and personal growth. He later returned to Oklahoma to attend Oklahoma State University, earning a degree in general business studies. It was during his time at OSU that Tom met the love of his life, Vickie Rice. They graduated together and married in 1972, beginning a beautiful partnership that spanned over five decades.
The couple made their home in Oklahoma City, where Tom briefly worked in banking before entering the Navy and later as a Marine Cadet, earning a quick honorable discharge. Tom's career then led him to Conoco, where he and Vickie would welcome and raise their two children, Emily and Zachary, in Ponca City.
Tom's life was profoundly transformed during his time in Ponca City when he experienced a personal conversion and was baptized at Second Baptist Church. This moment ignited a deep passion for ministry, leading him and Vickie to attend Rhema Bible Training Center. Upon graduating, they embarked on a life of service, founding a thriving church in Albany, Georgia, which began in a YMCA and grew to over 500 members. Their journey continued with the establishment of Christian Victory Church in Tallahassee, Florida. While in Tallahassee, Tom also worked as an insurance agent with Prudential, showcasing his dedication to providing for his family while pursuing his calling.
In their later years, Tom and Vickie returned to Tulsa to care for aging parents. They became active members of Victory Church and The Bridge Church, finding joy and purpose in their community. Tom was also heavily involved in a prison ministry that only ended because of physical limitations. In 2011, Tom faced a Parkinson's diagnosis with unwavering faith and strength, transitioning into retirement alongside Vickie.
Tom was a man of deep integrity, compassion, and faith. He had a heart for people and never met a stranger, welcoming everyone with open arms. Holidays at the Cabell home were always filled with warmth, often extending to include those in need of a place to belong. Tom's love for music, reading, and barbecue added to his vibrant personality, but his greatest passion was sharing the Gospel. From the cargo belly of an airplane to the ends of the earth, Tom spread the message of Christ with fervor and joy.
On Sunday, January 26, 2025, Tom passed into the arms of his Savior, leaving a legacy of love, faith, and devotion. He was 76 years old.
Tom's memory lives on in the hearts of his cherished family: his beloved wife, Vickie; his daughter, Emily Craft, and her husband, Chris; his son, Zach Cabell, and his wife, Angela; and his five adored grandchildren: Savannah, Addison, Landon, Logan, and Ezekiel. He is also survived by his sister, Therese Cabell.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Murray and Helen, and his sister, Christine.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Tom's life was a testament to the power of faith and the beauty of a life lived for others. His impact will be felt for generations to come.
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