David Arthur Thomas

Marion, Virginia

David Arthur Thomas, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on his terms, on his birthday at his home in Marion at the age of 88.

Born in 1930 in Buffalo, N.Y., David devoted his life to his family, faith, and community. He was a man of integrity, hard work, and kindness who never hesitated to put the needs of others before his own. David was an active member of the Marion VFW Post #4667 and the Marion Kiwanis Club, and he joyfully shared his voice as a member of the Marion multi-church Joyful Noise Choir. He also contributed significantly to the Ball Camp Community recreation program, where his efforts touched the lives of many children in the west Knoxville community. In his many charitable activities, David always sought to uplift and help those less fortunate. A proud Veteran of the United States Navy, he served honorably during the Taiwan Strait Crisis. David was also a life time member of the Gideons. David poured his heart into supporting his family, living by the values of honesty, perseverance, and compassion. His love was steady and unconditional; whether through his quiet guidance, his constant encouragement, or the countless sacrifices he made to ensure his family’s happiness and well-being. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy of love and dedication lives on in all who knew him. Above all, David was a man of faith. He lived his life guided by God’s Word and trusted fully in his Savior, Jesus Christ. He was called home and went to be with the Lord. While his earthly journey has ended, his family finds peace in knowing he is now in the presence of his Heavenly Father, reunited with the loved ones who went before him.

He was a devoted husband and father and was preceded in death by his wonderful wife of 55 years, Kate Thomas; parents, Carlyle Thomas and Claudia Place Thomas; and brother, Dan Thomas.

David is survived by his son, Michael Thomas and wife, Amy; daughter, Melinda “Mindy” Dyer and husband, Miles; grandchildren, John Thomas and wife, Whitney, Kara Thomas, Kaitlin Golden and husband, John; step-grandchildren, Caroline West, Kathleen West, Mary Jo Jones and husband, Clark; and great-granddaughter, Everly Thomas.

A service celebrating his life will be held for the family in Knoxville, at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Marion Kiwanis Club, P.O. Box 501, Marion VA 24354.

To share memories of David Arthur Thomas, please visit www.seaverbrown.com. Care for Daivd has been entrusted to Fraziers’ Seaver-Brown Funeral Service & Crematory, 237 East Main Street, Marion VA 24354.