Tommy Bruce Dingus

Tommy Bruce Dingus, 66, of Coeburn, Virginia, ascended to his heavenly home on August 28, 2025. On this day, he took his final flight-not in a helicopter, but on the wings of peace-as he entered the arms of his Lord, surrounded by his loved ones and his only son. His mission here is complete, but his legacy of service, sacrifice, and love will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched.
Born and raised in Coeburn, Tommy carried with him the values of hard work, loyalty, and community pride that define the mountains of Southwest Virginia. His passion for emergency medicine was born from tragedy: as a child, he lost his brother at a very young age to sudden, unexplained cardiac death. That heartbreak ignited in him a lifelong determination to help others in their moments of greatest need.
Tommy proudly served as a paramedic and flight paramedic, both on the ground and in the skies, dedicating his life to saving lives and bringing comfort to the suffering. He was employed by Lifecare Ambulance Services and formerly served as a flight paramedic with Wings Air Rescue. Earlier in his career, he worked for Friendship Ambulance Service, Washington County Johnson City EMS, and he also served as a police officer for the Norton City Police Department. His journey of service began at just 17 years old as a volunteer with the Coeburn Rescue Squad. Beyond responding to emergencies, Tommy was an EMS instructor and an American Heart Association instructor in BLS, ACLS, and PALS, sharing his knowledge and passion with the next generation of emergency responders.
To his colleagues, Tommy was more than a paramedic-he was a mentor, a brother, and a quiet hero. His bravery and skill guided many through the hardest of days, but it was his compassion-his ability to treat every patient like family-that set him apart. No matter the hour, no matter the circumstance, Tommy never hesitated to help.
Outside of his work, Tommy's greatest joy was found in his family. He was a devoted and proud father to his beloved son, Brantlee, whom he often said was his greatest gift. Every moment with Brantlee was treasured, and the bond they shared will continue to shine brightly.
Tommy also loved the outdoors. He found peace in fishing the creeks of Wise County with his son Brantlee, and was an avid NASCAR fan. Deeply rooted in his community and faithful in his walk with God, he was always ready with a helping hand or a word of encouragement.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Pauline Dingus, and his brother, Darrel Dingus. He is survived by his cherished son, Brantlee Dingus, who will carry on his legacy; his brother, Chester Dingus of Coeburn; his aunt, Gladys Estep of Big Stone Gap; his best friends Kristi and Gary McCarthy of Coeburn; and his "daughter of the heart," Taylor Dickenson of Pigeon Forge. He leaves behind a host of extended family, colleagues, and friends who will forever carry his memory forward.
Services to honor Tommy's life and legacy will be held at the UVA Wise Convocation Center on Friday September 5th 2025. Visitation will begin at 4pm, followed by the funeral service at 7pm with Pastor Danny Smith.
It was Tommy's wish to be cremated, and his ashes will remain with Brantlee.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a scholarship fund for Brantlee Dingus at New Peoples Bank, 5448 Wise-Norton Rd., Norton, VA 24273.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the family of Tommy Dingus.