Thomas Haynes Vandiver (also known as Tommy or Tom) passed into eternal glory at 6:55 a.m. on Thursday, September 7, 2023 at Calvert City Convalescent Center after a long battle with cancer. He was 83 years old.
Tom was born in Smith Mills, Kentucky on April 15, 1940, to “Tom and Kack” Vandiver and had two brothers, Garland and Ralph. He lived his earlier years in Sebree, Ky, before moving to Paducah because of his father’s employment. After graduating from Paducah Tilghman High School in 1958, Tom served 4 years in the United States Air Force where he received his education in electronics, and maintained radio and radar equipment. Tom also earned a private pilot’s license and even studied Martial Arts when he was stationed in Okinawa.
Following military service, Tom and his bride, Ellen, began their family. Tom was happily employed as an engineer associate for Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) for over 30 years before retirement. After retiring, he continued doing electrical work for R. Carr Associates for a number of years.
Tom was devoted to his family, friends, and church. He and Ellen enjoyed square dancing round dancing and spent several years traveling to dances throughout the southeast. Tom loved his home and working outdoors. He doted on his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Tom served his church in different capacities throughout the years and was filled with joy when helping build handicap ramps for the Reidland United Methodist Church Ramp Ministry.
Tom leaves behind his wife of 62 years, Ellen Vandiver; one brother, Garland Vandiver (Ann); one son, Bob Vandiver; one daughter, Lisa Rowton (Dave); four grandchildren: Alaina Vandiver (Adam), Melody Black (Eric), Mandy Rowton, and Maggie Rowton; eight great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Tom was proceeded in death by his parents, Will Tom and Bertie Kathryn Vandiver; one brother, Ralph Vandiver (Doris); one infant sister, Betty Vandiver; and one son, Mark Vandiver.
Funeral Services will be conducted at 2:00 on Sunday, September 17, 2023 at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah at 120 Memorial Drive, Paducah with Reverend Katie Minnis officiating. Visitation will be held at 12:00 until service time. Entombment will follow in Woodlawn Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Reidland United Methodist Church Ramp Ministry, 5515 Reidland Rd, Paducah, Ky, 42003.
You may light a candle or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.