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Thomas Minor Obituary


News Death Notice

MINOR, Thomas Mason "Motors" passed away March 7, 2009. He was born in Middletown , September 22, 1949 to Robert and Betty Linkins Minor. Tom grew up in Middletown , graduating from Middletown High School in 1967. He enlisted in the Marines and served in Vietnam . After returning to Middletown , he began his 32 year career at Armco. Tom had many interests. He was an avid car enthusiast, with a specific passion for Jaguars. He had his helicopters pilots license from Bell Helicopter, and in the early 1980s served as a volunteer for the Warren County Disaster Service Organizations Search and Rescue team. Tom loved billiards, always saying that he never "played" pool, he "paid" pool. He was also a great football fan. He attended 10 Super Bowls with his friends, and could always be found in the corner booth at the Meadows for Monday Night Football. Although he was always on the go, Tom loved nothing more than a nice quiet candlelit dinner with a bottle of Jordan . Aside from all of his hobbies, his greatest pride came from raising Amie and Aaron, and participating in their lives. In 2000, Tom became a grandpa for the first time. This was the greatest joy in the last ten years of his life. He was preceded in death by his birth mother, Betty Louise (Linkins) Minor, and his father, Bob Minor. He is survived by his mother, Phyllis Minor, his daughter, Amie Earls and her husband Chris, his son, Aaron Minor and his girlfriend, Molly Thurman; three grandchildren, Ellie Louise Earls, Carter Thomas Earls and Evie Erin Earls, and three brothers, David (Josine) Minor, John (Kim) Minor, and Tim (Anita) Minor. Toms best connection to other people was through laughter. He always said that in his obituary it should simply say, "Motors said hell see you later." To continue in the spirit of giving that mattered to Tom the most, in lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Tom Minors Grandchildrens Scholarship Fund, c/o Fifth Third Bank, 915 Elliot Drive , Middletown , 45044. A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, March 11, at 1:30 PM at First Presbyterian Church. A private burial will be held at Woodside Cemetery at the familys convenience. Condolences may be sent to the family via our website at [email protected]

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Published by Journal-News from Mar. 9 to Mar. 10, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Minor

Not sure what to say?





Simone (Raj) Leonard

March 15, 2009

Dear Minor Family,
It is difficult to share any words that can fill your recent loss. I pray that you will find comfort in God’s unconditional love and grace.
Your distant cousin,

Ceal (Snow) & Jimmy Thompson

March 13, 2009

To the family of Tom Minor: Our thoughts and sympathy to you and your family. We are praying for you and your family. May you have hope in your heart and blessings to comfort you. May you find some comfort in the thought that others care. "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds"...

Dick Newman

March 13, 2009

Was very sorry to hear of Tom's passing. Had a great time with Tom back in the day at Wildwood GC. Had not seen Tom for several years but have great memories of him.

Kathy Capozzi Scallon

March 12, 2009

Amie, Aaron, J and Minor family,
The number of memories here is a testament to the man Tom (Motors) Minor always was. He was a great father, brother, husband, son and friend to so many of us who grew up in a place called Middletown, Ohio. Tom brought joy to all who knew him, and then experienced the best joy when his children were born. Take comfort in that now, that he is finally in God's hands and at peace and smiling down on all of you with that signature smile we loved him for. Rest in peace my friend, you brought us together.

Steve Roberts

March 12, 2009

Tommy, I will always remember as kids eating candy in the balcony of the First Presbyterian Church on Sunday, going to the YMCA, the C-store, Sunset Park, the Jug, the Lake, road trips to Oxford, rides in the limo with loud music, making it through Roosevelt and MHS with you. How can one forget getting into Bob’s private fridge & his tools in the garage, the car rides with Phyllis where you always wanted to go faster, the trading of your Grandma’s chocolate chip cookies for my Mother’s pimento cheese?

Once I left Middletown, you were always there to welcome me back. You will always be remembered and loved by your numerous friends and their children who had the pleasure to meet you.

Ginger Krause

March 12, 2009

Amie and family,
So sorry to hear about your dad. May God comfort and carry you through this time. Praying God's blessings upon you.

John and Sherry Langhorne

March 12, 2009

Dear Minor Family, just heard of Tom's passing today. We could never speak of him to each other or others without smiling because he always had a way of making everyone feel special. His smile will be truly missed.

Chee Chee Martin

March 12, 2009

I am so sorry to hear about Motors leaving us. I have a lot of fond memories of him and David. So many times we partied together and he always made me laugh! I will surely miss him!

Courtney Isaacs

March 12, 2009

Aaron,
You are in my thoughts and prayers!

Lew and Connie Rosenbloom

March 11, 2009

Lew and I were so sorry to hear about Tom. We were out of town at the time or we would certainly have made it to the service. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Tom &Betty Jo Faulkner

March 11, 2009

To the Minor & Earls family

We were saddened to hear of Tom's passing. His smile and concern for how you were doing when he would see you will be missed. Tom was a good friend and my comrad when we were station in the same company in Viet Nam. I could not have ask for better he was a true friend & patriot "Semper FI" .

Dan Myers

March 11, 2009

Amie, Aaron and Family, Tom was one of my best friends whom I loved and respected. He was a very special person and will not be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers are with you. God bless you! Sincerely,

Tiffany Blevins - James

March 11, 2009

Aaron & Amie,
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers!!

John Myers

March 11, 2009

Aloha Tommy, Coming back to Middletown to visit just lost much of the fun...I sent Aaron the picture of Motors, Helen and Miri up at #5 in front of the Jag... our last Christmas time together. I wish Duke and I had made it down to the cabin in Kentucky. I know how much you loved it. I've been flashing on all the times from little kids days to our semi-old age. Thank you for the ride in the Cobra, the stumbling golf we played, pitchin' pennies at Cotillian, Y and Lake Dances, the mower you gave to Helen, Aaron and the time he spent with me on Moloka'i. The tribute you paid to your father at #16 at Wildwood is a testimony to your character. I wish I had more of Minor in Myers. Aloha for now...The Miri

Steve and Rhonda Posey

March 11, 2009

To the Minor Family,
We would like to express our deepest sympathy at this time. We were so surprised to hear about Motors....and we are so sorry that we could not be in town to pay our respects. He was a long time friend who will be deeply missed. Our prayers are with all of you.
God Bless,
Steve and Rhonda Posey & Family

Susie White Gregoire

March 11, 2009

Dear Family - Thanks for the great memories of my favorite Middletown neighbors.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Jim and Gina Dennis Hugar

March 11, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Linda Howard

March 11, 2009

Tom (Motors) will truly be missed by all who enjoyed his sense of humor and winning personality. It has been a pleasure for me to have known Tom since elementary school. (Our fathers were also friends.) I will certainly miss seeing Tom at our high school class reunions; it won't be the same! My thoughts are with all of Tom's family. Gone too soon!

Paul & Donna Goodwin

March 11, 2009

From Tom managing our band the TRUX, to living with his Mom and Dad, the trip to California, to cruising in our ambulance, all the way through recent times, Tom has produced some of the truly great times of my life. A great friend to Donna and I. Tom will be forever in our minds. Our deepest sympathies to Tom's family. We will all miss him very much.

March 11, 2009

To the Minor and Earls families we are so sorry for your loss. You and Tom are in our thoughts.
-Tommy, Christy, Nicholas, and Vaughan Hawkins

Daphne (Lindsay) Eldridge

March 11, 2009

To all the Minor Family,
Our family all knew Motors and have many fond memories, especially lots of laugher. When our Dad passed this past summer we truly appreciated that he came to pay his respect to Dad and our family. His words brought comfort to us. May you find comfort from all the love his friends are expressing and knowing Tommy is at peace. Our prayers our with your entire family.
May God bess you all at this time of sorrow,
One of the Lindsay's.

Pete & Cindy Weitzenkorn

March 11, 2009

Motors, Simply one of the nicest people we've ever known. Thanks for being you and for the memories we'll keep of you. You're a good man Tom Minor.

Marybeth Bender

March 11, 2009

my heart goes out to ALL of the Minor Family. I know Tom was a good man and had a great way about him. Much love, Marybeth Bender

Helen Stevens-Gleason

March 11, 2009

Dear Family of Motors/Tommy,
What a caring individual, who would have given you the shirt off his back! His little jokes would crack you up, no matter how many times you heard them. At Christmas, my cousin, Johnny, and I spent some time with him. He spoke so proudly of you kids, and grandkids. You were the light of his life..He had me go out in my driveway to inspect his Jag, sit in the soft leather seats, and switch the radio around to listen to the outstanding sound system. Then he gave me some pointers on taking care of my Saab. We talked about the go-cart injury and I explained, again, that it was all his fault, that my dad wouldn't let me have a go-cart. I don't know how many times my father said to me, "No, you're not getting a go-cart, one damn-near killed Tommy Minor. End of story." My favorite line was when Motors would still call me, "Helen Wheels!" I remember also many fun times David, Tommy, and I had at the Aviation -Bird Club- setting the tables, when our dads were preparing for a breakfast for a fly-in at the airport. What a dear guy, who always made you laugh. Know that he was welcomed into glory by our Father, to work on all those beautiful, gleaming Jags up in heaven. Tommy, we know that all the pain is taken away and you will have everlasting peace. God bless all of you mourning his passing, our hearts and prayers go out to you. Much love, the Stevens-Gleason family

Jason Mullgrav

March 11, 2009

Aaron and Amie,

Some of my greatest memories are of your dad and the great times I had whenever he was around lighting up the room! My condolences and best wishes to both of you!

Jerry Wise

March 10, 2009

Motors, One of the most beloved persons that I have ever known. All are better for knowing him. We have lost a great one. Very sad. Thanks for all your help with the Jags. Love ya buddy.

Beth, Steve, and Annie O'Neil

March 10, 2009

You are in our thoughts and prayers. Take comfort in the love of friends and family at this sad time. Sincerely,

Scott Wright

March 10, 2009

I Knew Tom my whole life. Jackie used to babysit my sister Pam and I. Then they lived on Elmo down the street from us as I grew up. Jaguires and big campers. Sorry for OUR loss.

Ron Agee

March 10, 2009

My condolences and our love & prayers from all of the Agee Family. We are grateful for your friendship and all the good times over the years growing up in Middletown ! We love you Tim, John, David, and Phil ! We Love Tom and all of the family. I wish I knew his children and invite all of them to visit me in Colorado, any time ! Bless you all, we will miss Tom and Love him like a brother.

Ron Agee & The Agee Family

Ron Agee

March 10, 2009

My condolences and our love & prayers from all of the Agee Family. We are grateful for your friendship and all the good times over the years growing up in Middletown ! We love you Tim, John, David, and Phil ! We Love Tom and all of the family. I wish I knew his children and invite all of them to visit me in Colorado, any time ! Bless you all, we will miss Tom and Love him like a brother.

Ron Agee & The Agee Family

David Vick

March 10, 2009

Tom and I grew up together along with some of the old friends I have recognized leaving a message here. I believe he lived on Elmo, I lived on McKinley street. We started Lincoln School kindergarten together and graduated in 67 together. In grade school, we built wooden go karts with lawnmower engines and raced them at Lincoln. I think we were in the Marines at the same time. I haven't seen Tom in many years as I have lived out of town for so long, but I am proud to have called him a friend and am so sad that he passed. David Vick Minneapolis, Mn

Lea Stoutenborough

March 10, 2009

His spirit lives on, and always will...I hope you will be comforted remembering how he touched our lives. Grief can not take away all the times shared, and sorrow will fade with time. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Tony, Lea, Nols and Kyle

Larry and Jerry Ditmyer

March 10, 2009

Both of us would like to express our deepest sympathy. We new motors 45 plus years and have very fond memories of him. He will be missed by so many.

Ron and Debbie Reedy

March 10, 2009

To the Minor family: Our love and prayers go out to you in this time of loss and sadness. Our hearts were truly broken when we learned of Tom's passing. We will always cherish the memories of the times we spent with him, in our youth and in the last few years. Peace to our good friend "Motors".

Rage

March 10, 2009

I am so sorry to hear about Motors leaving us so soon. Rock on, brother!

Larry & Jo Bartlett

March 10, 2009

Amie,

We are so sorry for your loss and we extend our deepest sympathy. You will be in our prayers

Monk Wallace

March 10, 2009

I've turned many a wrench with Motors. It breaks my heart that he left us so soon. He was one of the finest guys I've known. He will be greatly missed.

Marilyn Meeker Chappell

March 10, 2009

Dear Phyllis and family. So sorry for your loss. Marilyn Chappell

Peter and Mary Harvey

March 10, 2009

Amie ad Aaron, We are so sorry for your loss. We both enjoyed your Dad so many times; what a sense of humor. I will always remember his face when you wee named Homecoming Queen. He was so proud of both of you. In this painful time never forget how much he loved you both. Through all his troubles he still had that beautiful smile. We will miss him.

Brian Stokes

March 10, 2009

Amie and Aaron,

I'm so sorry. You and your family are in my thoughts. -Brian

Gail Reck

March 10, 2009

Dear Amie and Aaron, I'm so sorry about the loss of your dad. I am so glad I saw him at Marsh's just last week. He told me about buying his 13th Jaguar. He always had a hug and a joke for his friends. He will be truly missed. He loved you kids so very very much.

Kerry Kicos

March 10, 2009

Dear Amie & Family,
I am so sorry for the loss of your dad. I know he will be missed! You and your family are in my thoughts during this difficult time.
Love,

Pam Mitchell

March 10, 2009

To the Family of Tom Minor...David and I wish to express our heartfelt sympathy for your loss. Our families go way back to when our dads flew airplanes together...hopefully all your wonderful memories of Tommy will help ease the pain during this difficult time. There was never a moment when I saw Tommy that he did not bring a huge smile to my face. He had a special way of ligthing up the room. David joins me in wishing him peace...

Warmest regards,
Pam Goetz Mitchell, MHS Class of 1965

Barry Landrum

March 10, 2009

Minor Family

I'm so sorry for your loss. Tom was special to all of us who was lucky enough to work with him at the Research Center. Along with loyalty creating fun and mischief was his tag. He was eager to speak of his children but always asked of yours. I/We will truly miss him.

Ali Ferlet

March 10, 2009

Dear Amie,
Whenever I saw your Dad around town, we always had a talk about you and the kids. He never called you "Amie," he always called you, "My Baby Girl." I thought that was so very sweet.

Love always,
Ali

Steve & Barb Powers

March 10, 2009

Our sincere condolences and prayers to Tom’s loving family & friends. May you find some comfort during this difficult time knowing special friendship memories of Tom over the past 40 years have sure put a smile in our hearts! God bless.

Lee Ann Holly

March 10, 2009

I have known Tom most of my life. We were neighbors on Elmo Place/Fleming Road. Never ran into him that he didnt have a smile, a hug, or a do you need anything.
To Dave ,John, Tim and Phyllis, and the extended families, you are in my thoughts and prayers.
God Bless you Tom and keep you save in HIS loving eagle's wings.
Lee Ann from the old neighborhood.

Marty

March 10, 2009

Will always remember the joy, laughter and tears. I'm glad you were one of my "Black Light" boys and will always remember the help you gave me with my Jag. With lots of memories

Janet Ferguson McIntosh

March 10, 2009

To The Minor Family,

My sincerest condolences on your loss. I went to school with Tommy and remember distinctly at Lincoln Elementary School when we had the Science Fair that Tommy's entry was the internal combustion engine. I remember him being so enthusiastic about how the engine worked and now see that his enthusiasm did not wane over the years. He was a classmate all through school and I remember him as a fun and friendly guy. I'm sure he brought much love and laughter to your lives and will be greatly missed.

Laine Bachman

March 10, 2009

Dear Amy and Aaron and family,
I am at a loss for words to express all my sympathies. My heart is with you. He will be greatly missed. I grew up with you all and love you all so much!

Anna Wood-Spaulding

March 10, 2009

Amie & Aaron,
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. All of the love and support from your friends and family will see you through this difficult time. Your father will never be forgotten!!!!

Roma Lewis

March 10, 2009

To Tom's Family: I want to express my deepest sympathy. I worked with Tom at Armco Research for many years and always considered him a dear friend. May God bless all of you in your time of grief. Tom will be missed.

Virginia Pledger

March 10, 2009

Aaron and Amie,

I'm so sorry for your loss. Your father was always such a friendly,fun loving guy to be around. He will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you both.

Jenny Wills

March 10, 2009

Dear Amie, Aaron,and Family,

I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my constant thoughts and prayers. Your dad was an awesome man and will be missed by many.

Chelsea Schmidt

March 10, 2009

Tom was a very friendly guy. He was my neighbor at Olde Towne Apartments. So nice and funny. He also knew my mother, and had nothing but postive things to say about how sweet she is.

Tracy Miller

March 10, 2009

Amie, Aaron and the rest of your family,
May the special memories (especially his laugh and outgoing nature) help you to heal during this difficult time. He was an amazing guy and may his spirit always live within you. We are so sorry for your loss. God bless you.

With love,
Nick, Tracy (Perkins), Kiersta and Julia Miller

Tami Everidge and family

March 10, 2009

Dear Minor Family(Tim and Anita),
I would like to express my deepest sympathy for your loss. I didnt know Tom very well, except for seeing him in the store or of Tim talking of him. Tom was always very nice and pleasant when in the store, and i am sure he will be greatly missed. Tim,Anita, and Minor family, you are all in my thoughts and prayers. May God be with you and comfort you in this, your time of need.

Doug Kauffman

March 10, 2009

Motors,
You will surely be missed by all who knew you. I still have fond memories of you with my brother and Dad, working on the race car, and also your jar head days with my brother., I still have the pictures. Good Luck in your new life.

Scott & RuthAnn Warman

March 10, 2009

Amie & Aaron, we are so sorry for your loss. Take heart that Tommy is with God and is smiling down on his beloved children. The two of you were his greatest joy and accomplishment in life. His bright smile, quick wit and kind words will be missed. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Steve Puckett

March 10, 2009

My friend Motors: Tom and my brother Eric who past 6 years ago on Feb. 24th Tom and Eric lived together in the 70's when both were out of the Marine Corp I can remember those day well. Tom also lived above me at Old Town a couple years ago. He was a great guy and we would visit all the time. You will be missed Tom.

Melia McGraw-Calvert

March 10, 2009

Amie and Aaron:

I was so sorry to hear about your Dad. You're both in my thoughts today. Your Dad was always smiling...a part of that was because of you.

Paul & Cecelia Nenni

March 10, 2009

Amie & Aaron,
We feel your pain. Tom was a good friend and we will miss him very much. We know he is at peace.

Matt Pledger

March 10, 2009

I am truly sorry for your loss. I hope that you and your family can look to the lord for help during this difficult time. I will keep you all in my prayers. Sincerely

Nannette Manning

March 10, 2009

Dear Motors, You were loved by anyone who knew you. I will always remember you as the older bud that dated my best friend, that cruised us around in his convertible, that made it to every campout sleep over, and who never let a friend down. I hope that you have found peace. I'll miss you Motors. Your bud , Nannette Henning Manning

Chris McNamee

March 10, 2009

Amy and Aaron, I grew up with the both of you and will never forget the times we shared with you and your parents on Elmo Place. I love all you guys and my prayers go out to all of you. Your dad was a great guy and he will be missed.

Phil Brown(Brownie)

March 9, 2009

I am in Mexico and won't be able to pay my respects to Motors and I am so sorry for the family. I have know Tom all my life and loved him as a Brother.
May you all find comfort in your sorrows. God Bless the Family

Jenny and Mike Agoston

March 9, 2009

Aaron and family,

We are so sorry to hear about your dad. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

God Bless.

Marc Buchanan

March 9, 2009

Amie - I left you a pvt message at FaceBook, but I know you might not have gotten it yet.

Just know I am thinking of you and keep you and your family in my prayers.

Scott/Debbie James

March 9, 2009

We loved your Dad, he is and was a very special person, we shared marine brat stories and Jaguars. I am so sorry, we will miss him. Danced with him once at Stephanos and I will never forget it! He was an amazing person.

Sincerely,
Debbie James

Gretchen Blevins-Rosenfelder

March 9, 2009

Amy & Aaron my throughts and prayers are with you!

Billie K Taylor

March 9, 2009

Tommy, what a great neighbor and a helpful guy.I'll miss your great smile and our late nite trips to Marsh. You have always and will continue to be in my prayers.always remember prayer is the key to heaven. I'll miss you motors!

Dave and Cat Cole

March 9, 2009

A good guy,an old friend who I've had some great times with.Motors was a spark plug of energy and support during the Trux/Intruders era.Our thoughts and prayers go to Amy ,Aaron ,his family and friends.Thanks for the love and friendship! The Christmas gigs won't be the same without you!

Mo Evingham

March 9, 2009

Amy and Aaron,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Chris McNamee, Lindsey Etter and Mo Evingham

Leslie Stiver

March 9, 2009

Amie & Aaron, you and the rest of your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Be strong for each other during this difficult time.

Ty Goforth

March 9, 2009

A great and funny guy to be around.
Always the bright spot in every group.
He will be missed.

Dick Kauffman

March 9, 2009

God have mercy on his soul. Tommy was a good man and a great friend. He treated all with love and respect and always tried to make others feel better and have fun. His passing is a loss to us all.

Olde Towne Staff

March 9, 2009

He will be missed.

Diana Allen

March 9, 2009

May the Lord give you eternal rest and salvation. Tommy (Motors), you were funny and loving. You always had a smile on your face and a good word for everyone. I will miss you very much.

Mary Lou Elwood (maiden name-Back)

March 9, 2009

My deepest sadness and regret for the loss of an old friend, Motors. He was such a special person/friend for many years. My sincere sympathy goes out to the family and ALL Motor's friends. Cannot believe he is gone. May he be at peace now.

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