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R. Thomas Alouf Jr.

R. Thomas Alouf Jr. obituary, Roanoke Valley, VA

FUNERAL HOME

Oakey’s South Chapel

4257 Brambleton Ave.

Roanoke, Virginia

R. Alouf Obituary

R. Thomas (Tommy) Alouf Jr., 52, of Roanoke, Va., took his final flight on Saturday, October 23, 2010, from MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. Tommy was born on July 25, 1958, in Roanoke, Va., the oldest of six children. He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Laurie Ann Alouf; and children, Jessica and Ryan Alouf; parents, Raymond T. and Gail Alouf; brothers, Jim and wife, Dawn, Mark and wife, Crystal, Mike and wife, Heidi, and Chris and wife, Hollie; sister, Lisa and husband, Lane Dellinger; numerous nieces and nephews; father and motherin-law, Jerry and Patricia Hardesty; and aunts, Pauline Alouf Damus and Marguerite Alouf Daher. He was the godfather to Jonathon Alouf and Matthew Painley. Tommy had a passion for flying which was developed at a young age and obtained his Pilot's license at the age of 15. He attended Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Fla., where he was a devoted member of Sigma Chi belonging to the ETA Iota Chapter. Tommy began his career as an officer in the United States Army where he served 10 years in both active duty as well as reserves where he was trained to fly UH-1 helicopters. He was hired in 1984 by Air Virginia and achieved his dream of flying with Piedmont Airlines in 1987 and continued with them as they merged with US Airways, where he flew another 23 years. Tommy enjoyed working hand in hand with his father on many business adventures throughout the valley and surrounding areas. He was a lifelong member of Our Lady of Nazareth Catholic Church. Tommy was bigger than life and embodied the spirit of youth. The family will receive friends from 5 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, October 27, 2010, at Oakey's South Chapel, 4257 Brambleton Avenue, SW, Roanoke, Va. Funeral Services will be conducted at noon on Thursday, October 28, 2010, at Our Lady of Nazareth Catholic Church with Msr. Joseph Lehman officiating. Reception to follow in the fellowship hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his memory to the American Cancer Society or Sigma Chi Eta Iota Chapter Embry-Riddle University. Tommy's last wish was for more participation in the bone marrow transplant system, www.bethematch.org to register. Arrangements by Oakey's South Chapel, 540-989-3131.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Roanoke Times from Oct. 26 to Oct. 28, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for R. Alouf

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Freddie Trebby

November 20, 2010

He was one of the nicest guys I ever flew with... always a pleasure. I am so sorry for your loss... Sincerely, F/A Freddie Trebby (retired)

beth wilson

November 19, 2010

to the alouf family sorry for your loss you all are in my thoughts and prayers he will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him

November 4, 2010

Laurie and Family, It was a great shock to me to learn of Tom's passing. I knew Tommy from back at our Air Virginia days and he flew with me many times. We always had a fun time and I truly enjoyed his company. I was also happy to see him in the crew rooms after he had gotten hired at Piedmont, also. I last talked to Tom 2 years ago and was looking forward to seeing him back amongst the ranks enjoying this passion and love. My deepest sympathies and prayers are with you during this time. I know Tom will be missed by an enormous number of friends as well as his family, and take comfort that he left such a great memory to so many.

Tim Shelton Eden, NC

Gregg Rorabaugh

November 3, 2010

Although I had not seen Tom for a few years, I have a lot of fond memories of our times together at Embry Riddle and Sigma Chi. All you can each chicken at Popeyes, Sonny's BBQ, and the late night forays and discussions.

My condolences to Laurie, Jess, Ryan, and the Alouf family and friends.

Buffie Hinson Anderson

November 2, 2010

He spake well who said that graves are the footprints of angels.

Amanda French Leonard

November 2, 2010

To All of the Alouf Family, I was saddened by the news of Tommy's passing. Please know that your family is in my thought's and prayer's.

Michael & Pam Doyle

October 29, 2010

Laurie, Jess, Ryan and the entire Alouf Family..We were saddened by the death of Tom. Our thoughts and continued prayers are with your family. God Bless You and give you strength in the coming days..

Sean Francisco

October 28, 2010

To All the Alouf Family,

I was shocked and saddened to hear of Tommy's passing. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. I am so sorry for your loss.
With Deepest Sympathy

Steve @ Goldsmith Jewelers

October 28, 2010

Ray, Gail, Laurie & Family

It's always been a privilege & honor to know & work with your family.

I saw Tommy about a month ago, so knew of his battles. But this came as a shock. I truly feel your pain.

Tommy was the "best". May God be with you in this time of grief, and bring peace to your hearts & minds, for Tommy is suffering no more.

Doug Thompson

October 28, 2010

Ray, Gail, Laurie & Family, We were so saddened to read about Tommy's passing. Jennifer, Jackie and I were not aware he had been ill. May God's strength support your family in the days & weeks to come.

October 28, 2010

Lane and Lisa, just wanted you to know I'm thinking about you and your family in the loss of your brother-in-law and brother.
Glenda Farrar Camp

George Lobman

October 28, 2010

Having known Tommy for quite some time and serving in N.C. with him I can truly say he will be very much missed. Over the years if anyone could count on anyone else it was always Tommy who would be there and speaking out common sense. I will personnely miss his humor and his Camaraderie. May God be with him and his family!

chuck fluty

October 28, 2010

Soldier On! You will be missed!

October 27, 2010

I first met Tom at Air Virginia nearly 25 years ago, where we were both pilots. I very clearly remember the date and place when Tom received his notification that he had been selected as a new-hire pilot for Piedmont Airlines. I remember his excitement and jublilation at the good news. But even more, I remember the thoughtfulness he displayed by assuring all that were present that we too should keep the faith because we would all "make it" at some point in the future. He was right, many of us joined him at Piedmont in the coming weeks and months.

Tom was the consummate gentleman, a pilot's pilot and a dang good friend. He will be sorely missed.

Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies to all that called this man a son, a husband, a father and a friend.

God speed my friend.

Sincerely.

Mike Loy

October 27, 2010

Gail, Ray and Family, We were sad to hear of Tommy's passing and regret that we did not get a chance to know him. May God Bless.
Always - Bill and Judy Clevenger

October 27, 2010

Ray and Gail,
I am so sorry to hear about Tommy. I have such fond memories of growing up with him on Mudlick. You and your family are in my prayers.

Connie Patillo Pearlman

Linda Wheby

October 27, 2010

I am sorry to hear of your loss. God bless you all.

Linda Wheby

Jeff Ryan

October 27, 2010

Laurie,and families, Tom will be missed, but not forgotten.....we all have to fly west on that final flight. May God Bless you and your family.

Lois & George Pannell

October 27, 2010

Gail, Ray & Family,
We were so sorry to hear of Tommy's untimely passing. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

Casey, George and Aidan Self

October 27, 2010

Laurie and Ryan,

We are so sorry for your loss. Tom truly was larger than life. I enjoyed getting to know him at the gym and loved seeing his pride in Ryan's achievements. Your family holds a special place in my heart for all the support Ryan gave to Aidan at the gym. May you find peace in the coming days knowing that Tom's spirit lives on in those who knew him.

Carol McGuire

October 27, 2010

Laurie,

So sorry for your loss. I know you and the children will miss him dearly. My heart goes out to the whole Alouf Family.

The Gilstraps

October 27, 2010

We are truly sorry to hear of your loss. Please find comfort in the larger than life memories you must hold close to your heart. We will continue to pray for you guys and your strength to accept Tom's peace. Lynden, Jake, John, and Sandra

Robyn Mabe (Boush)

October 27, 2010

Ray and Gail,

I had no idea Tommy was battling cancer...my thought and prayers are with your family. I am so sorry.

Ann Rakestraw

October 27, 2010

My family and I were very sorry to hear of your loss. I will always remember Tommy as someone who was quick to laugh, had a great love for his family, and lived with gusto. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Terri Kinsey

October 27, 2010

We are so sorry for your loss. Tommy will be missed by so many. We are lifting your entire family in prayer. May God give you peace and comfort during this tough time.

Mike & Leslie Burzynski

October 27, 2010

Laurie and family - Our prayers are with you in this time of deep sorrow. Tom was a such a big teddy bear. His heart will live on in his family. Our best memory of Tom was the flight in the hot air ballon on a beautiful fall evening with our family. It is something we will never forget and we are so glad for that special time with him and you! God's gain is our loss.... Much love, Mike & Leslie

Robert Edwards

October 27, 2010

So sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to the entire Alouf family. May God bless and you will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Rich Wargin

October 27, 2010

I was fortunate enough to see him recently passing through Charlotte where we talked briefly. Always the optimist, he was upbeat and cheerful.

Tommy was, is and will be missed by everyone who knew him.

Ellis Family

October 27, 2010

To the entire Alouf Family:

We mourn the loss of Tom with you, and you will remain in our thoughts and prayers.

Todd Shortt

October 27, 2010

Our hearts and prayers are with the entire Alouf family. So sorry for your loss.

Bruce Mittendorf

October 27, 2010

Tom was not only a good man but a good pilot, a pleasure to be with in the cockpit. Another friend of mine passed this month and his last words were "Wow, oh wow" before he closed his eyes. I can only surmise that the next stage of the spirit is one of absolute beauty and serenity. God bless you, Tom, and your family.

Shirley Romano

October 27, 2010

Gail and Ray, I was so shocked and sad by
the news of Tommy's passing. Frank said
he had fond memories of Tommy and our
Tony being taught trumpet in the
Oake Grove school band class together.
My heart goes out to you and your
family at this time of so much grief.
Shirley Romano

Kevin and Jill Early

October 27, 2010

To the Alouf Family,
We are very sorry for your loss. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

Trish and James Roney

October 27, 2010

It goes without saying that Tom was a unique individual soul as there ever was. Always giving, kind at heart with a deep abiding love of family and friends. He will be more then missed as the special impressions Tommy has left upon our souls is ever lasting, dear in our hearts. Amen.

We offer you, the Alouf family our deepest sympathy.

Buddy Bowen

October 26, 2010

Please know you are in our hearts and prayers.Tom was a good guy,and a friend of mine.

The Echternach's

October 26, 2010

Laurie, Jessica & Ryan,
We grieve with you over the loss of Tom. He was a great neighbor, and friend. Our prayers are with you all. May God give you strength to soar on Eagle's wings (Isaiah 40:31)...
John, Debbie, Jeff & Jaimie

Brad, Taryn, Anna Kathryn, and Sophie Scruggs

October 26, 2010

Laurie, Ryan, Jessica, and family,
My heart is so broken for you all. Tom was one of the first to take us in to the gymnastics family, and his stories made those long home meet weekends easier. I know how hard this time is, hold on to each other, call us to cry, we're here day or night. Deal in your way. Anytime we can help, please call. We'll miss his optimism, and love for life. We love you guys. And Laurie, the Hokies did win it for your Tommy.

Teresa Shortt French

October 26, 2010

I am so sorry to read of this - I knew Tommy in high school and have many fond memories of him.

He was definitely larger than life with a heart to match. Your family is in my prayers.

Rest in peace, Tommy,

Gabrielle Vorst

October 26, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with you, your children and all the Alouf family. Rest in peace, Tommy

Annette Huckfeldt

October 26, 2010

Laurie, Jessica and Ryan: My prayers are with you all. Memories of Tom will always bring a smile to my face. He was such a character! He leaves behind a wonderful and caring family. Hold on to each other.

Kelly Steger

October 26, 2010

I was very saddened to hear of Tommy's passing. He will be missed by all who knew him.

With much love,
Kelly Steger (formerly Kelly McGuire)

Hugh and Donna Gerlach

October 26, 2010

Tommy, you were bigger than life and a fighter all the way--you inspired us all. You will be missed.

Stacy Lahti

October 26, 2010

Dear Laurie, Jessica, and Ryan,
We were saddened to learn of Tom's passing. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Lahti Family

Lori Fox

October 26, 2010

Laurie, Ryan, and Family,

Please know you are in our prayers and thoughts.

With much love,
Liza and Lori Fox

todd lake

October 26, 2010

Todd Lake

October 26, 2010

Todd Lake

October 26, 2010

Todd Lake

October 26, 2010

Todd Lake

October 26, 2010

Todd Lake

October 26, 2010

Todd Lake

October 26, 2010

Todd Lake

October 26, 2010

Todd Lake

October 26, 2010

Don & Loretta Alouf

October 26, 2010

Ray, Gail, Laurie and families,
We will remember Tommy as larger than life with a boyish smile that lights up a room. He has accomplished feats that the rest of us only dream of.
You are in our thoughts and prayers. All our Love,

Tim & Wanda Ward

October 26, 2010

Thinking of all of Tommy's family in this difficult time and keeping you in our prayers.
Tim and Wanda Ward

Beth Lawhorn

October 26, 2010

Laurie, Jess, Ryan and the entire Alouf Family~ Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with you during these difficult days. We can only imagine the heartache you feel. Everyone who knew Tom will miss him terribly. Peace to you all. With much love, Beth, Tim, and Beth Anne and the Hasselmann Family.

Sandra Newman

October 26, 2010

I work at the Roanoke airport and had the opportunity of meeting Mr. Alouf. He was such a nice man. Always smiling and upbeat, and friendly. I am glad to have met him. My regards to the family for your great loss.

Raymond Painley

October 26, 2010

To all the Alouf Family:

You have my most serious condolence on the passing of Tommy. It was always a wonderful time to be in his company and especially on the occasions when I was able to participate when he and Lori visited with Mark and his family. I will never forget the visit at Mark's on the occasion of Matt's graduation.

We will miss Tommy greatly and remember him in thought and prayer.

Ray Painley

David Wirt

October 26, 2010

Laurie,Mr. & Mrs. Alouf and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. I remember some great times with Tommy during high school. I will see you on Thursday.

October 26, 2010

Laurie and family, so sorry for your loss. Know Tom will be greatly missed. Thinking of your family in thoughts and prayers.
Gary, Rose & Keeley Peters

October 26, 2010

Laurie and Family,
God bless and comfort you during this time of such heavy grief. Tommy had a heart of gold for his involvement at the Harbour and we will miss him tremendously. May he fly with the angels and share his love forevermore.
God bless ... Jan Porter, Wyndham Associations

Charles Hoayek

October 26, 2010

Dear Raymond, Gail, laurie, Jessica and Rayn ,
We are writing to extend our deepest sympathies to you and your family.
We heard the sad news of the lost of Thomas, we heard a lot about him from Stephan and we wished we had the chance to meet him.
In behalf of the Alouf family in Lebanon we present our sincere condolence and pray God to have him in his kingdom.
Please extend our Sympathy to your entire family and let them know that we share the pain at this sad time.
Our sincere thoughts and prayers are with you.
With deepest sympathy,

Dr. Nicolas Alouf, Michel Alouf, Charles Hoayek, Nassif Khoury, Georges Alouf, Antoine Alouf, Jean pierre Alouf.

Allison Riley

October 26, 2010

Ray, Gail, Laurie and families,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort and ease your pain ...

Greg & Cheryl Bolen

October 26, 2010

Jim, you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers

October 26, 2010

Ray & Gail and family, I really am in a state of shock. I am so sorry. It is so hard to grasp that he could be gone. He was a great person, I have so many memories of him while we all lived on Mud Lick Rd. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Love, Clay & Mike Morrissett (Whitman)

Mickey & Amy Wentzel

October 26, 2010

Ray, Gail, Laurie and families,
How sorry we were to hear of Tommy's passing. Know that God is with you all during this difficult time. May it ease the pain a little to know that you are in everyone's thoughts and prayers...

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