William "Tommy" Thomas Niver Jr.

William Thomas Niver Jr., 82, passed away on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at his daughter’s house, surrounded by his loved ones.

Born on May 4, 1943, in Savannah, Georgia, Tommy was the son of the late William Thomas Niver Sr. and Louise Niver.

Tommy proudly served 33 years in the U.S. Army and Air National Guard, retiring with the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. He also served his community as Mayor Pro Tem and Traffic Judge of Bluffton, South Carolina. Alongside his father, Tommy helped establish Bluffton’s first ambulance service, providing critical emergency care to the community. In addition to his military and civic service, he retired from Standard Oil of California/ Chervon. After retirement, he continued working part-time at Dillard’s for 35 years, where he enjoyed staying active and meeting people. He had a deep love for shag dancing and was a longtime member of the Savannah Shag Club. Tommy also enjoyed fishing and shrimping in the Lowcountry waters.

A dedicated coach and mentor, Tommy coached softball for many years in both the ladies’ church league and city league. He also coached his son and daughter in baseball and softball. His faith was important to him, and he faithfully taught Sunday School for many years at Garden City United Methodist Church.

Above all else, Tommy cherished spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the greatest joy of his life.

He will be lovingly remembered by his son, Trey Niver; his daughter, Mandy (Chuck) Wilkinson; his grandchildren, Chandler (Sarah) Wilkinson and Madi Wilkinson; his great-grandchild, McCoy Wilkinson; his nephews, Lee (Linda) Boulware and Scott (Kim) Boulware; his niece, Stephanie Johnson; as well as many beloved grand-nieces, grand-nephews, cousins, and friends.

His memory will be cherished by all those who met him.

A visitation for family and friends will be held Sunday, January 18, 2026, 1 to 3 pm, at Carlson and Riggs Funeral Home with a service to follow at 3 pm. A private graveside service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of Savannah 1352 Eisenhower Dr, Savannah, GA 31406 and Bluffton Cemetery Preservation Society P.O. Box 282, Bluffton, SC 29910.