Barbara Van Thomas

September 19, 1935 – November 3, 2025

Barbara Van Thomas, 90, of Oak Hill, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2025, surrounded by all of her children. Born in Fireco, WV, she was the daughter of Romie and Cleo Thompson. Barbara married Bobby “Wheel” Thomas and together they raised four children: David Thomas (Michael Lawson) of Kingsport, TN, Dale Thomas (Tracy) of Reidsville, NC, Donald Thomas (Debbie) of Columbia, SC and Debra Lanna (Chris) of Beckley, WV. She was blessed with ten grandchildren, six great grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. Barbara was the sister of Patricia Kettlewell (Raymond) of Crab Orchard, WV, and Marshall Thompson (deceased).

Barbara married young to Bobby “Wheel” Thomas. She remained loyal to him, even after their divorce, and cared for him up to her dying breath – a testament to her deep love and devotion.

Barbara had a gift for making everyone feel at ease. Her easy smile, sharp wit, and gentle teasing were how she showed affection – she only picked on the ones she truly loved. She rarely spoke a harsh word; instead, she would simply smile and say, “It’s a Purdy Day.” Her warmth, humor, and kindness drew people to her throughout her life.

As a mother, Barbara’s love knew no bounds. She sat on countless bleachers, clapped though numerous performances, and ate more concession stand food than any mom should ever have to. Her children always knew she was their biggest cheerleader – patient, proud and full of unconditional love. A kiss from her to any “boo-boo” would bring prompt healing. Her easy smile, open and nonjudgmental heart, and bottomless coffee pot made everyone feel at home. There was always room for one more cup of coffee and one more slice of cheese at her table.

Barbara found joy in tending her flowers and pond, crafting and reading – especially the “smutty books” that whisked her away to other worlds. Her home was always filled with laughter, love and the comforting chaos of family. Barbara loved coffee, bacon and personal pecan pies. (The family sends condolences to those industries; as their profit margins will now be greatly reduced). There wasn’t a picnic unattended by her. She especially loved spending time outside, at the high walls of old strip mines, and at WV State parks. As the years went on, her back porch became the gathering place for home-cooked meals, cuddles, and silly songs on the swing.

The beauty from Stoco High School grew from a young mother into a devoted wife, a strong and independent woman, and later, a beloved salesperson at J.C. Penney – before becoming the heart and soul of her family, affectionately known as “Gram.”

A celebration of Barbara’s life will be held at Blue Ridge Funeral home on Saturday, November 8, 2025. Visitation at noon and funeral at 1pm. Guests are encouraged to wear BRIGHT COLORS and share in the love she passed on to us all. The family requests donations be made to the Oak Hill Public Library in her honor, so that the gift of reading may continue to “whisk” readers away on fantastic journeys well into the future.