Thomas Ray Fivash's Obituary
A Family JourneyThomas Ray Fivash was born in Wilson County, Tennessee, on April 15, 1924 to John and Mattie Napier Fivash. His father passed when he was four, leaving his mother to raise him and his siblings. She later remarried and two more siblings were born. Thomas served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Despite living directly across the river, it wasn’t until 1955, when he attended a New Year’s Eve party in Lebanon, Tennessee, that he met Billie Nollner Houdeshell with whom he shared a “big” kiss. Billie had recently sought the services of a fortune teller, who informed her that she would meet Mr. “tall, dark, and handsome,” and sure enough, fate would have it so. Despite family not being overly supportive, the two eloped and were married six months later. The Joy of FamilyThomas and Billie shared in the joy of marriage and a ready made family for Thomas, consisting of four children. Later, grandchildren and great-grandchildren added to this blessing, and provided Thomas with a great source of pride. It was time with family that put a smile on Thomas’ face. They enjoyed trips, both as a couple and as a family. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing with his children and grandchildren. His great-grandchildren recall fondly how “peepaw” would pull out a family album of photos every time they visited, illustrating his pride and joy in them. One of his great grandchildren, Jackson, was intrigued because Thomas always called him Bob – Jackson’s Bob the Builder t-shirt initiated a new special nickname.Florida BoundThomas’ favorite destination was Florida. He would head to Florida every year. Often the family would take a camper down to the area. His grandchildren recall many wonderful memories while vacationing in the sunshine state. One great-grandchild recalls how they had a huge crab inside the hotel room one trip and frightened, she ran outside, only to have Thomas send the crab out with her and lock them both outside. Another grandchild recalled how “peepaw” would let him sleep with grandma on such trips because he liked to tickle her and this would make both of the grandparents laugh with delight. Running From WorkThomas was a long time employee with the Ford Motor Company. He worked in the Glass Plant in Nashville for over 30 years. While there, he continued to pursue one of his passions, running. Thomas would run long distance, competing in 10k runs and marathons. He could run a four-minute mile as well as anyone one-third his age, and won several awards for races in his age category. He would even run on his lunch breaks! Other InterestsBeyond running, Thomas enjoyed sports on television and the outdoors. He loved to watch High school football, and was a “competitive” supporter. His family recalls, even in his 50s, getting into football brawls after games in the parking lot with the competition’s fan club. He also loved to play golf and would gladly keep his stroke count the same as his golf mates. Much time was also spent in church. Billie and Thomas were former members of Madison First Baptist Church and later joined Greenbrier First Baptist Church. A Legacy of LoveThomas’ had to go on dialysis in 2011; one of his greatest challenges, as his health was always excellent. However, he continued his legacy of love by continuing to enjoy the gift of his family. Thomas passed away September 11, 2012. He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Diane Castleman. He is survived by his wife, Billie; son, Leighton (Loretta) Houdeshell; daughters, Carolyn (Jimmy) Neal and Linda (Jimmy) Kirkpatrick; 8 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and 11 great, great-grandchildren.
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