Obituaries » Mary Tomlin
Mary Tomlin
Mary “Lois” Tomlin, age 91, of Lynchburg, Virginia, passed away on May 12, 2023, at her residence. She was born in Lynchburg, Virginia, in 1932 to the late Robert Merle Sterne and Lorene Hattie Conway.
Lois leaves behind one son, Michael Tomlin (Melissa); sister, Jean Crickenberger; brother, Robert Sterne (Georgia); former daughter-in-law and caregiver, Rhonda Tomlin; daughter-in-law, Sallie Tomlin; numerous nieces and nephews; grandchildren, Eric, Justin (Kayla), Shannon, Forest (Eric), and Taylor; and great-grandchildren who she doted on and loved very dearly.
Lois is preceded in death by her husband, Richard Tomlin; three sons, Dale, Kirk, and Gary Tomlin; and two brothers, Joe, and Wayne Sterne.
Lois worked in Lynchburg City School System for over forty years as a secretary but was much more. She retired from Dunbar Middle School in 2012 and loved her work family and all the children she grew to know. She never left a child behind. She was a hard worker and loved working in her yard, going on trips with her family and friends, playing with and taking care of her grandchildren and later her great-grandchildren who adored her. She was affectionately known as Granny to her family.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Centra Hospice for assisting in her care.
A celebration of Lois’s life will be held on Wednesday, May 17, 2023, from 2 P.M. to 5 P.M. at Lois’s residence.
Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.
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Our family moved into Mrs. Tomlin’s duplex apt. In 1967. It was brand new, Lois watched myself and 2 brothers with exceptional care. My mother was newly divorced and Mrs. Tomlin always made us feel welcome in her home. She was truly one of a kind. I will never forget her as long as I live. She was a very caring mother figure to us. May God bless her soul.
Posted by Gary Desper on May 19, 2023
I'm sad to hear of Lois' passing. She was the sweetest lady, and I loved working with her at Dunbar. She knew everything about that school! My sympathy to her family.
Posted by Jennie Howell on May 17, 2023
I’m so sorry to hear about Lois. My family and your family were close when I was growing up. Our moms were best friends. Dale and I used to play together when we were little, and graduated high school together. Your mom was such a sweet lady, who will truly be missed. All my love and prayers go out to you and your family.
Posted by Jana Terrell on May 17, 2023
My heart is broken to hear that Ms. Tomlin has passed. She was one of the the kindest, compassionate and generous woman of God. She made working at Dunbar Middle School so happy and peaceful. Ms. Tomlin was very professional and sweet. I send prayers and condolences to her family. A sweet angel is now with The Lord! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Posted by Diana Thompson on May 16, 2023
Lois was an amazing coworker and friend. She was a great lady and will be dearly missed!
Posted by Karen Taheny on May 16, 2023
As an itinerant teacher, I worked in over 30 schools during my career. Lois and Diane made Dunbar the BEST school to work in. She went way above and beyond to make sure I had everything I needed, even flowers when my grandmother passed. Many crowns in heaven await Miss Lois!
Posted by Cindy Lemmons on May 16, 2023
Lois is one of the great ladies I have ever known. As a school secretary she set the standard for efficiency in her office yet loving outreach to those in need. Bravo Lois for a life well lived!
Posted by Jim Meredith on May 16, 2023
Lois and I were former co-workers, but lifelong friends. I loved how much Lois loved her family and admired her strength, willingness to help anyone, independence, and loving nature. I will miss her. Love, Diane
Posted by Diane D Wilson on May 14, 2023
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