Barbara D. Thomas

Barbara D. (Bobbi) Thomas, 55, of Roanoke, Va., passed peacefully on Thursday, September 24, 2009, surrounded and loved by her family and friends after a year and a half battle with leukemia. She is preceded in death by her father Al Dellinger Sr. She is survived by husband, Lyn Thomas; and son, Chris Barbee and daughter-in-law, Rebecca; mother, Elizabeth Dellinger; sisters, Cynthia, Libby, Maggie and Allison; brothers, Al and wife, Sally, and James and wife, Lisa; stepdaughters, Carrie Tolley and husband, Timmy, and Cheryl Dillon and husband, Scott; four nieces, Kayla, Nora, Courtney and Blythe; nephew, Jacob; four stepgrandchildren, Brooke, Aaron, John and Matthew; and beloved dog, Sugar. Bobbi, as she was known to her family and friends, was a unique individual, with a love of life and people. She was an avid member of the Roanoke Valley Shag Club, enjoying dancing with her husband at their many events. She was also a member of the Roanoke Valley Board of Realtors. In her various jobs, as in her life, Bobbi had an ability to integrate the people that she met with her gracious and caring and spirit, including her caregivers at both Carilion Hospital in Roanoke and VCU/ MCV Hospital in Richmond. She never forgot a name or face. Bobbi loved to travel, was a consummate bargain hunter, talented decorator, excellent chef, and loving, giving person, Bobbi will remembered by many people for many qualities, including the way she approached her illness with courage and endurance, loving life until the very end. She will be sorely missed by her families, but will be ever present in spirit as both inspiration and example. The family will receive friends on Sunday, September 27, 2009, at Oakey's North Chapel between the hours of 2 and 5 p.m. Services will be held noon on Monday, September 28, 2009, at Oakey's North Chapel conducted by the Rev. Mark Washington. Interment services at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the The Leukemia Society of Virginia, 5001 W. Broad St. Suite 1008, Richmond, Va. 23230, 804-673-8855.