Obituary of Roy Lee Thomas

Roy Lee Thomas of Bedford, age 66, passed away Wednesday January 13, 2021 with his wife, daughter, and brother by his side at Duke Heart Center in Durham, NC. Roy was born August 14,1954 a son of the late Samuel and Hilda Thomas. He was also preceded in death by a brother, Chuck Thomas. He worked at various places in Bedford throughout his life, from the Terrace House where he met his wife in his early 20’s and then Bedford Elementary School until he retired. He had been married for almost 40 years and lived in Bedford all of his life. Roy enjoyed visiting his beloved daughter and playing with his grandchildren whom he adored, gardening, cooking, and going to the beach. He was a member of Bedford Baptist Church and graduate of Liberty High School. Roy is survived by his loving wife, Gale Thomas; daughter, Erin Samsell; son-in-law, Brian Samsell; grandchildren, Caleb, Ari, Jackson, and Gabrielle Samsell; brother, Gene Thomas; and sister, Carol Thomas; as well as various cousins, sisters and brothers-in-law, nieces, a nephew, and friends. A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, January 21, 2021 at Updike Funeral Home Chapel in Bedford at 12:00 Noon with the Rev. Danny Holdren officiating and burial will follow at Virginia Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 11:00 to 12:00 prior to the service. The Thomas family and UFH request everyone follow social distancing guideline and also wear a mask. Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.