From flyboy to farmboy, dabbling in politics and policies, Tom Vandiver has had his hands full!
Former city councilman and mayor of Artesia, Vandiver has spent innumerable hours in service to his community over the decades.
Born in Thomasville, Ga., Vandiver, now 83, learned firsthand the blessing of giving from his school teacher parents, along with their strong moral values and beliefs, also crediting his aunts and uncles as a positive influence.
He also learned the value of education, graduating from high school at the Manuel County Institute in Twin City, Ga. and receiving a mathematics degree from Georgia Southern University in Stateboro, Ga.
After university, Vandiver taught high school math. Then history changed and with it, Vandiver’s life path took a westward swerve.
With the outbreak of World War II, Vandiver enlisted in the Army Air Corps. His enlistment bought him a ticket to Marana Air Base in Arizona where his path merged with that of Jody Sears, a University of Arizona student.
Sears became ‘Mrs. Vandiver’ and eventually the mother of three, as well as his best friend and companion for over half a century and they are still obviously adoring of one another.
While in the Air Corps, Vandiver was promoted to the rank of first lieutenant and served stateside as a pilot instructor.
After separating from the military, Vandiver worked for six years at Gulf Corp., working as a safety supervisor in Texas and New Mexico, eventually arriving in Artesia.
In 1952, his father-in-law “needed assistance” with his farming business and Vandiver stepped in.
Mr. Sears had no sons, but a willing son-in-law filled the bill.
Vandiver now is “semi-retired” from farming, though the family farm is still a working enterprise.
This first taste of agriculture led Vandiver to serving on the Pecos Valley Artesian Conservancy District, where he was instrumental in many advances relative to water conservation.
Vandiver retired from the PVACD in 2001, having held many offices since his election as president in 1955.
That, however, was not his only role as a leader.
Vandiver served on the city council and was appointed Mayor in Sept. 1959 when Mayor Harold Saueressig was appointed to a state office.
He held that post until April 1960. The First National Bank still boasts him as a member of the board of directors.
With all his distinguished experiences, it is difficult to choose one shining moment.
But overall Vandiver is proudest of his time with PVACD and the significant changes that have come about during his tenure with that body.
Through conservation and education, area farmers have learned better methods of watering crops without wasting water, helping to assure there is enough to maintain crops on an ongoing basis.
PVACD has also been instrumental in affordable agricultural loans earmarked for farm improvements and to establish the entire water basin.
Desert dwellers have long considered water a precious resource, and the efforts of Vandiver and others ensures that this valuable element is used judiciously.
In addition to his wife, Jody, the Vandiver family includes daughters Susan and Karen.
Son, David, is a local attorney.
All three graduated from Artesia High School.
The Vandivers are also the proud grandparents of eight, with three great-grandchildren in the “brag book” as well.
Jody and Van are members of the Presbyterian Church. Sports have also been a big part of Vandiver’s full lifestyle, having played football in college and served as a coach.
The Bulldogs are a favorite in the Vandiver household and AHS is held in high esteem, not only for the high scholastic standing it maintains but for the continuing entertainment provided in the various productions and sports programs the school presents.
“We’ve enjoyed ties to the community ... and good friends ever since we moved here,” Vandiver and Jody agree.
The miniature, almost lifelike ducks adorning the Vandivers’ den speaks of Van’s enjoyment of hunting in days past.
Relaxing a bit in his semi-retired stage, Vandiver enjoys traveling and last year attended an Air Corps reunion in San Antonio, Texas.
His bright-eyed little dog, Missy, also keeps him active as she bounces along on their daily walks.
Vandiver has seen a lot of living since his early days in Georgia and has given much to his family, his community and his country.
A strong and loving family provided the rock-solid foundation for an individual who soared, not only in the air corps, but in every earthly service to others and the hearts of those whom he has touched.