Tomeia Rawson

Tomeia was born on the banks on the Kanawha River in West Virginia to Thomas and Bennetta Tincher. After graduating from high school in 1962, where she enjoyed playing the clarinet and marching in the band, she went on to get her bachelor’s degree from West Virginia University, studying secondary education. She taught early grade school for several years in Northern Virginia and Charleston, South Carolina.

When Tomeia started her family she decided to dedicate her life to her children and their family. As Laurelyn and Jennifer came along Tomeia set out to be the best mother she could. Whether that was driving to swim meets at 4 in the morning or baking cookies for the various softball, track and other clubs her girls belong to she was always happy to do it. She made numerous lifelong friends from those activities and always enjoyed catching up and staying in touch with them over the years.

In addition to her children Tomeia had a few other passions she enjoyed. First and foremost were her Washington Redskins. She enjoyed watching the games and cheering on her team. Although there was a lot of yelling that went on during the games she was a consummate fan and never gave up hope. Her other big passion was singing in the church choir. She enjoyed the songs, friendship and sense of community that it gave her. Her daughters were always so proud and happy to see her singing during the holiday services. Also, not to be forgotten was her love of animals. She had several family pets over the years that lived like kings because of her love. Tomeia was also known to take in any stray that walked past her door. She had a big soft spot for anything with fur!

Once her grandchildren came along the yelling at the Redskins on Sundays was quickly replaced by diapers and play time. Her free time was consumed with trying to spend as much time with Hayden and Allison as she could. She loved all the time she was able to spend with them especially since she was able to offer “Grandma Daycare” a few days a week. She enjoyed watching them learn and discover the world.

Tomeia was predeceased by her parents and many aunts, uncles and cousins that she loved dearly. She is survived by her daughters Laurelyn and Jennifer (John Robinette) and her beloved grandchildren, Hayden, 15 and Allison, 13. Tomeia was a caring and kind person who will be missed greatly.

In lieu of flowers, if you would like to make a donation in her name to Alzheimer’s research, hospice care or an animal rescue league we would be touched. There will be a small family service, graveside, at Mountain View Memorial Park in Charleston, WV on Monday, January 10th.