Robert (Bobby) Thomas, age 78, of Shady Spring entered into Eternal rest on February 15, 2026, surrounded by family and some of his closest friends.

Bobby was born on July 11, 1947, in Bluefield, WV the son of Robert (Bob) and Betty Jane Thomas. He graduated from Shady Spring High School in 1965 and attended Beckley College and WVIT before joining his father's landscaping business. He inherited the business after his father's death in 1983 and continued to operate it for many years. Bobby also owned and operated Rent a Flick in Shady Spring and made many lasting friendships from the patrons of his shop.

Bobby met the love of his life Carolyn "Sue" Slone in August of 1967, and they married on January 27, 1968. Bobby and Sue had many wonderful years together, raising their two sons and creating special memories. Their 58th wedding anniversary was just days before his passing.

Bobby loved the outdoors and enjoyed riding his Dixie Chopper over his hillside. He was well known for his sense of humor and was particularly known for his witty, sometimes little sarcastic one liners. He wasn't above some light pranks every now and then, but his goal was always to introduce humor and make his friends and family laugh. Bobby was preceded in death by his parents and by his two sons Robert Parker Thomas II and Eric Franklin Thomas.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife Sue, his grandson Alex Thomas, several special cousins, and many nieces & nephews. He is also survived by two brothers in law Roger (Barbara) Slone and Allen (Paula) Slone.

A celebration of a life well lived will be held on Friday, February 20, 2026 at 1 pm at Melton Mortuary. Come to share your favorite memory of Bobby, your best "Bobby" joke or just to help remember a truly unforgettable man.

Pastor Todd Yonce will officiate. Friends may call beginning at 12 noon. Entombment will follow at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens.