Thomas H. Wilson

It is with great sadness that Vinson & Elkins announces the passing of our friend, colleague and partner Tom Wilson, who passed away at age 62 following a courageous battle with cancer.

Recognized as one of the nation’s leading labor and employment lawyers, Tom spent his entire career at Vinson & Elkins, joining the firm’s Houston office as an associate in 1985 and being elevated to partner in 1994. He served as practice group leader for Vinson & Elkins’ Employment, Labor & OSHA group, and not only did he build a thriving practice in traditional labor and safety law, he also had a passion for international human rights law and played an important role in helping to develop environmental, social and governance (ESG) strategies early-on for clients.

Consistently named by Chambers USA among its top labor and employment attorneys, Tom was sought after by clients around the world for insight on their U.S. operations and direction on matters related to managing a global workforce. Among his vast experience highlights were counseling businesses in connection with questions about the social element in ESG matters; providing counsel on human rights matters, including diversity, equity and inclusion considerations, related to operations, projects, and supply chains; and helping clients navigate their social risks and opportunities. Tom also advised employers regarding union relations, assisting with collective bargaining negotiations, responding to charges of unfair labor practices, and arbitrating union grievances. He assisted clients in supply chain due diligence and advised them on how to eradicate forced labor when discovered. He has also worked with clients to establish good relations with indigenous people impacted by international projects.

“Even more than being a tremendous lawyer, Tom was a mentor and role model for younger attorneys and he always prioritized time for his family,” said Vinson & Elkins Chair Keith Fullenweider. “The passion Tom brought to his practice, the firm and his interactions with clients – many of whom worked with him for decades – set an example that we have all benefitted from. He will be sorely missed by everyone whose lives he touched over the years.”

“Tom was taken away from us too early, but the impact he left on those of us who were fortunate enough to know and work with him will be felt for a long time,” said Vinson & Elkins partner Sean Becker, current head of the firm’s Employment, Labor & OSHA practice.

Outside of the firm, Tom was the founding member and first Chair of the Texas State Bar’s International Human Rights Committee and served as Chair of the Board for The Briarwood School for children with learning differences, and was formerly Chair of the Board for The Brookwood Community, a residential and vocational center for adults with disabilities. Over the years, he also served on the Boards of various neighborhood healthcare clinics.

Tom leaves a legacy that will continue in the many lawyers he trained, the community organizations he helped build and lead, and the family that he loved. In our collective sadness over this loss, we look to find some comfort in celebrating and remembering Tom’s remarkable life. Our heartfelt thoughts are with his wife, Kathryn, sons Marshall and Merrick, and daughter-in-law Maddie, as well as his extended family, friends, clients and colleagues who had the pleasure of knowing him.