Thomas Austin Arey, Sr., 67, of Bedford died Thursday, November 19, 2015 at his residence. He was the husband of Shelby Jean Shifflett Arey for 41 years.
Born December 7, 1947 in Waynesboro, he was a son of the late Robert Henry Arey and Gladys Victory Tomes Arey. Thomas served his country by joining the Army. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War.
Thomas is also preceded in death by three brothers: Christopher, Robert Jr., and Grover Arey.
In addition to his wife, Thomas is survived by his children: Kristie Elizabeth Chittum, Shana Kimberly Witt, Heather Anne Guess, Julia Dawn Behrens, Thomas Austin Arey, Jr., Joseph Lee Shifflett, Jr.; sisters: Maudie Lipes, Shirley Craig; brothers: Gene Arey, Jeff Arey and 14 grandchildren.
The family request making a memorial contribution in Thomas Arey, Sr. name to the American Cancer Society, 2840 Electric Road, Suite 106-A, Roanoke, VA 24018, or the American Heart Association, 42147 Park Place Ct. Glen Allen, VA 23060.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Bedford is assisting the family