Thomas Gayland Malone entered the gates of Heaven, from his home, surrounded by family on November 13, 2022, at the age of 76, after a five-month battle with glioblastoma cancer.
Thomas was born to Prentice and Tommye Lee Reed Malone on November 4, 1946. After graduating from Vinton High School in 1965, he was drafted into the Army in 1966. After being discharged from the Army, he worked for Lanxess for 38 years until his retirement in 2005. After retirement he enjoyed traveling and spending time with friends and family. Thomas was a longtime member of the VFW and the American Legion in Vinton.
Thomas dedicated his life to serving God. He was blessed with carpentry, mechanical, and electrical skills; he was our “jack of all trades.” He absolutely loved helping people whether it was a neighbor down the road or a church in the Bahamas destroyed by a hurricane. He had a true servant’s heart.
Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, Prentice and Tommye Lee Reed Malone; his sister, Gwen Nell Hibbard; one grandchild; and one great-grandchild.
He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Diana Malone; his children, Tommy (Natalie) Malone, Schantel (Matt) Viator, Stacy (Kevin) Skaggs, Chris Cooper, and Lyndsey Cooper; his grandchildren, Justin Malone, Drew (Michelle) Malone, Shelby (Josh) Fontenot, Ryan Malone, Cameron (Katelyn) Benoit, Hayden (Heidi) Benoit, Harlee East, and Hadley Cooper; and 14 great-grandchildren.
Thomas is at home with Jesus and a celebration of his life will be held at Crossroads Baptist Church in Vinton, Louisiana, at 10:00 a.m., Friday, November 18, 2022. Burial will follow at Reed Cemetery in Vinton, Louisiana.
Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 17, 2022, at Crossroads Baptist Church in Vinton, Louisiana.
In lieu of flowers, you can donate to Fisher House III, 2022 Holcombe Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77030.
Condolences
Cheryl Matlock
November 17, 2022
Tommy started out as my boss and ended up as so much more. A mentor to many, so fortunate to be one. Hugs and prayers to his loved ones.
Linda Courmier Himel
November 17, 2022
I was in elementary and Thomas was in high school. I had gotten into trouble and Mr. Hannah had me in the hall outside the office talking to me. Thomas came up the back stairs that went to the music room. He was behind me. Hannah, but he could see me and I could see him. He proceeded to make faces and make me laugh. To say the least, I was in more trouble, but I didn't tell. He was a fun cousin! Linda Courmier Himel
Anonymous
November 16, 2022
Simply Elegant Spathiphyllum was purchased for the family of Thomas Gayland Malone.
Anonymous
November 16, 2022
Large Basket Garden was purchased for the family of Thomas Gayland Malone.
Anonymous
November 16, 2022
Beautiful in Blue was purchased for the family of Thomas Gayland Malone.