Thomas W. Barton

Thomas W. Barton, 82, passed away January 4, 2024 after a battle with cancer. He spent his final days surrounded by family and friends in his home. He was born in Thomasville, NC on October 3, 1941. However, his life truly began when he met the love of his life, Sandra, in 1959. Cancer may have taken his body, but his heart was broken and never healed when Sandra died in 2019.
Thomas is predeceased by his life long friend and wife of 59 1/2 years, Sandra Barton; his parents, Mack and Sadie Barton; and siblings Leon, Shirley, Jane, and Rufus.
Thomas is survived by his children Cassy Peffley, Kenneth and Sandra Barton, and Chris Brewer, grandchildren James and Heather Peffley, Alex and Beth Peffley, Allison and Nathan Byrd, and Delaney and Connor Miller, and great grandchildren Lyla Peffley, JJ Peffley, and Tanner Peffley. He is also survived by his brother Billy and Nancy Barton.
Thomas spent many years as a drywall finisher and in the restaurant business. He was a manager at Sambo's Restaurant, but his happiest memories were spent with family and traveling. He and Sandra loved to travel; they enjoyed trips to Egypt, China, Russia, and Europe.
He lived a life full of laughter and love. He was always quick with a joke and he loved to tease with everyone. Family dinners were filled with laughter and stories. He could always be found cheering on his grandchildren in their many activities. Thomas was known for "getting that sugar bowl" from all his grandchildren, great grandchildren and grandnieces.
Thomas enjoyed his lunch dates with friends Helen and Richard Mansfield, and teasing with his caregivers turned friends Latisha Jones and Shenequa Gilchrist.
Thomas had another constant companion, his cat, Misty. She most the most faithful of friends, spending most of her day in his lap. He doted on her and knew that she was always in charge.
Rather than sending flowers, Thomas would be happy knowing that the next time you see a friend or loved one, do your best to make them smile either with a joke or a hug.
The family will greet visitors at Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home, Great Bridge Chapel on Thursday, January 11 from 7:00 to 8:00 pm. Graveside services will be held on Friday, January 12 at 2:00 pm at Meadowbrook Memorial Gardens, Suffolk, VA.