Layman Leonard Thomas

Layman Leonard Thomas, 88, of Greenville, West Virginia, passed peacefully on January 15, 2026.

A lifelong resident of Greenville, Layman was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and a man deeply rooted in his community. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, quiet generosity, and unwavering love for his family.

Layman was a 1956 graduate of Greenville High School and continued his education at Potomac College in Keyser, West Virginia. Following the passing of his father, he returned home to help care for his mother and siblings, a reflection of the responsibility and compassion that guided his life. He later joined the National Guard before entering active duty in the United States Army, where he proudly served his country and was known affectionately as "Big Tom."

Layman dedicated many years of service to the West Virginia Department of Highways, working in numerous positions before retiring as County Superintendent. Never one to slow down, he went on to work as an inspector for Stafford Consultants Engineering, retiring for a second time. In addition to his professional career, Layman was a lifelong farmer who instilled a love of the land and farming tradition in his two sons, who proudly carry it on today.

He was a faithful member of Greenville United Methodist Church and an active member of the Greenville Ruritan, always willing to support his community.

Layman was preceded in death by his parents, William Perry Thomas and Vera Marie Crosier Thomas; an infant son, Mark; and by three brothers, William, Glen, and Bobby Thomas.

He is survived by his loving wife and partner of 35 years, Laurie Freeman Thomas; his sons, Greg Thomas and partner Karen Rogers of Greenville, and their children Eli, Mark, and Aaron (Erin) Lucas; and Alan Thomas and wife Nikki of Greenville, and their children Ariel, Tyler, Erin, and Logan. He is also survived by Laurie's children: Andrew Dobbs and wife Lynn of Morgantown, and their children Ava and Grace; Matthew Dobbs and wife Samantha of Greenville, and their children Alex and Ivy; and Zach Dobbs and wife Eve of Dublin, Virginia, and their son Zachary. Also surviving are his siblings, Ralph Thomas and wife Gleda of Greenville; Herbert Thomas and wife Nancy of Union; and Betty Ruth Fleshman and husband Sam of Union.

Viewing will be held on Sunday, January 18, from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Groves-Mann Funeral Home in Union, with funeral services immediately following. Burial will take place at Mt. Hedding Cemetery at Lillydale. Pallbearers will be Alan Thomas, Logan Thomas, Tyler Lykens, Eli Thomas, Mark Thomas, and Pee Wee Lucas.

Layman's legacy of service, faith, and family will continue to live on through all who knew and loved him.

Those wishing to send online condolences or would like to sign the online guestbook, please do so by visiting www.groves-mann.com. Arrangements by Groves-Mann Funeral Home, Union, WV.