JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – It might seem like the end of an era for some. But as longtime New4JAX lead anchor Tom Wills embarks on his new life-calling of retirement, it’s a new beginning — guided by God.
Tom remembers the “seeds of his faith” being planted at his childhood church in his hometown of Pittsburgh.
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Throughout his career, he’s remained vocal about how Christianity has been a driving force in his life and has openly shared his faith with the audience.
He’s stepping away from the anchor desk after nearly 50 years at The Local Station to welcome whatever God has in store for his future.
“It’s a new chapter in our lives, and we don’t know what to think about it. I’ve never retired before,” Tom said.
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In his television announcement, Tom pointed out that he and his wife took a lot of “thoughtful and prayerful consideration” before he committed to his retirement decision.
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“Retirement is a big decision,” Tom said. “Every day, I pray for God’s guidance. Both my wife and me, we had this prayer: ‘Dear God, I’m turning over into your care my possible retirement. It is too much for me. I can’t handle it. I need your help.’”
Tom said the next step after that prayer was to stop thinking about his retirement and give it to God to lead the way.
“Let him show me what it is He wants me to do,” Tom said. “It’s a simple thing.”
Stepping into his next chapter is one filled with peace and fulfillment. In many ways, Tom has left a memorable mark on the station, community, family and friends.
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Sharing his faith has been a positive light in an industry that is often criticized for being filled with negativity.
Tom said former New4JAX General Manager Bob Ellis brought the idea to him to combat that claim and to tell the stories of those making impactful strides in Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia.
“Every single story we do,” Tom said. “It’s about people. It’s about their feelings and about their lives. There’s so many good people doing so many good things.”
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Tom’s secret to success remains the same: he remained a student, and life was his teacher.
“I’m surrounded by people who teach me. The first was Jim Snyder, who hired me into this company 55 years ago, and he was my mentor. I’m here in Jacksonville, (it) was his idea. I didn’t know it at the time because I was young, but he’s one of God’s angels,” he reflected. “God works through people.”
Faith. Family. And 4. That’s his motto — an accurate reflection of Tom Wills: Our Newsman.