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Thomas Keyser Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Keyser
John W. Priddy, M.D.
July 4, 2009
To the circle of Tom's friends from more recent years, and to Susan and Christopher and Jonathan, I extend my condolences and want to share a few memories from Tom's earlier years. It's been decades since I've seen my friend Tom, yet at our age, time doesn't weaken friendship and affection.
We were childhood friends from the time his family moved to Ashland, Virginia. We shared classes in public school and Sunday school, and we graduated from Patrick Henry High together. Having read his obituary and guest book entries, it is clear that Tom continued steadfast in the high standards by which he was raised.
Just as Tom and Susan opened their home to their children's friends and Tom's positive influence extended to them, his parents made me welcome in their home many times. Tom's dad was a true gentleman, a role model Tom emulated and I respected. Laverne was a loving mother, strong and gracious. Tom was made of the 'right stuff,' and he was 'raised right.' I remember well his winsome smile and hearty laugh.
The night Tom's dad suffered sudden cardiac death at a dinner party with Laverne and church friends, Tom and I each had dates to a teen dance. He and I spent much of the next day together. When my mother died suddenly a few years later, Laverne reached out to my family and me. I cannot imagine the grief of a parent for the loss of a child at any age, and my heart goes out to Laverne.
In keeping with the faith our families share, I try not to dwell on the past or ruminate over 'what if.' Still, I want to shake Tom and fuss at him for what happened with the accident, but then of course I would forgive him. Mostly, I am very, very sad for Laverne and for Susan and the twins. Crystal and I are also blessed with twins. Life is indeed a mystery, beautiful and strange and difficult, a sacred gift. God bless each of you.
Grace and peace.
Sherry King Hunter
July 2, 2009
During your time of sorrow, remember you have family and friends who care. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Tom & I graduated together from Patrick Henry High . Hold on to your memories of happier times and they will help you through this difficult period.
Matthew Cohen
June 30, 2009
Dear Susan & Family,
Karen and my thoughts and prayers are with you.
I often reflect back on the time I spent with Tom in the Navy aboard the USS California. Tom was a true patriot and someone who cared for his friends and family and I will miss him.
Matt Cohen
Susanna & Bill Bruning
June 30, 2009
Susan & family,
May you find peace and comfort in the love you shared and in the love that surrounds you.
You are in our hearts, in our thoughts and in our prayers at this sad time.
"Until you meet again may God hold you in the palm of His hand."
Stuart Jones
June 30, 2009
Dear Susan, Christopher and Jonathan: Please know our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with you today and in the days ahead. May God give you and your family Peace beyond all understanding.
In Christ's Love,
Jacqueline and Stuart Jones
Dataw Island, SC
Steve and Lona Garrison
June 30, 2009
Our son, Greg, is a good friend of the twins. He and the boys played many games of paintball together, and Tom would join them as often as he could.
The Keysers also generously opened their home on many occasions for their boys' freinds. We will remember him as a kind man who loved his family and inspired our son and his freinds to grow up to be good, solid young men. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Angela Fors
June 30, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Terry Kulp
June 30, 2009
To the Loving Keyser Family: Tom worked right next to me for the past three or so years, and was a great companion with wonderful stories of his sons, his vaction to Mexico this past spring, his days in the Navy, and his love for the outdoors. I am saddened beyond believe that Tom has left us. I will miss him greatly. I am so very sorry for your loss. May God's Peace Be With You,
Tracy Foster
June 30, 2009
My soul shall be joyful in the LORD; it shall rejoice in His salvation. Psalm 35:9
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
I enjoyed working and talking with Tom at work. He loved his family and his life!!!
Joe and Jane Kessler
June 30, 2009
Tom was a fine man, friend, and neighbor - our thoughts and prayers are with you.
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