Obituary
I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith - 2 Timothy 4:7
In his boundless wisdom, God, in solemn grace, called Thomas Edison Ham, age 79, from labor to eternal rest on Saturday, January 20, 2024, in Gretna, Virginia. With heartfelt sorrow, we bid farewell to a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, cousin, and trusted friend.
Thomas was born on December 11, 1944, in Pittsylvania County, the son of the late Mary Lois Hamm and Charlie Glass. He was preceded in death by an infant child; one brother, Craymon Ham Sr.; two sisters, Ruth Hamm Gadson, and Andrea "Cookie" Glass.
Thomas embarked on his spiritual journey at a young age, becoming an integral part of the Riceville Missionary Baptist Church under the guidance of the venerable Rev. Bennie Williams. From the moment he stepped through the church doors, it was evident that Thomas' commitment to his faith was unwavering. His active involvement within the church transformed him into a true cornerstone of Riceville. Thomas attended services and became a central figure, dedicating himself to various roles that enriched the congregation. As the Sunday School Superintendent, he embraced the responsibility of nurturing the minds and hearts of the church's youth, imparting invaluable lessons that extended beyond the classroom. He would often quote his favorite bible verse, " For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life," John 3:16. Thomas' melodious voice resonated through the sacred halls as a proud member of the Male Chorus, elevating the worship experience for all who gathered. In addition to his musical contributions, Thomas took on the role of a teacher, not only during Sunday School but also during the sessions of Vacation Bible School. He had a passion for imparting the teachings of the Bible.
Thomas was educated in the Pittsylvania County School system and attended Northside High School. He was employed by Washington Gas and Light Company, Washington DC and the City of Danville. He also worked at the Lynchburg Foundry for 40 years.
On September 18, 1965, he united in Holy Matrimony with the love of his life, Estella Mae Coleman and this union was blessed with four children.
Thomas was not just a family man but the epitome of a devoted and loving provider. His unwavering commitment to his family was evident in every aspect of his life. He truly loved spending time with his family. On Sundays and throughout the week, Thomas could often be found at his Aunt Florence's house, engaging in hearty meals, enjoying peanuts, and participating in spirited debates. One of his cherished pastimes was fishing, and he enthusiastically sought out every riverbank. His love for gardening extended beyond a mere hobby; it was a testament to his nurturing spirit. Thomas took pride in cultivating bountiful crops, and the fruits of his labor were generously shared with friends and family, embodying his generous and caring nature. He enjoyed listening to R&B, especially Ottis Redding, gospel music and playing spades with his family. Thomas' dry sense of humor endeared him to those around him. His quiet smile spoke volumes, radiating warmth and kindness. As we bid farewell, it is with a heavy heart that we acknowledge the void left by his absence, knowing that the echoes of his laughter and the gentleness of his smile will be dearly missed.
He leaves to cherish his memories, his loving wife of fifty-eight years, Estella Coleman Ham of the residence; one Son; Timothy Eric Hamm (Antonia) of Stafford, Va.; two daughters, Tammy Elaine Plunkett (Tracy) of Maumee, OH and Brontie Renee Ham of Java, Va.; three grandchildren, Dante’ Cortez Craft, Timothy Eric Hamm Jr., and A’naisha Chante Hamm; one great grandchild, Zoe Arielle Craft; three sisters, Julia Coleman of Java, Va., Teresa Hamm-Wooten of Washington DC, and sister FreAnda Glass of Chatham, Va.; one brother, Myron Hamm of Washington, DC; four sisters-in-law, Geneva Thorpe of Java, Va., Lou Ella Grasty (Steve) of Java, Va. Thelma Dixon of South Boston, Va., and Hattie Ham of Long Island, Va.; five brothers-in-law, Frank Gadson of Halifax, Va., Larry Coleman (Dorothy) of Java, Va., Thomas Coleman of Chatham, Va., David Wimbush of College Park, Maryland, and Henry Coles of Java, VA, who was not just a brother-in-law and cousin, he was a lifelong trusted friend. They shared a love of baseball, and were the proud owners of the Riceville Diamond, the “Tigers' Den.” He leaves the love and devotion of his godchildren; Bruce Dawkins, Byron Dawson, Bryce Dawson and LaVon Dawson and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and a special cousin-friend, Castella Jones to cherish his memory.
Celebration of Life services will be held at 2:00 P.M., Sunday, January 28, 2024 at Riceville Missionary Baptist Church, 1444 Riceville Road, Java, Virginia. Pastor Ronnie Walker, Eulogist. Pastor Patrick Keene, Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, Presiding.
A public viewing will be held on Saturday, January 27, 2024 at J. L. Dodson and Sons Funeral Establishment, 447 Old South Main Street, Danville, Virginia.
The family is asked to assemble at the residence, 322 Church Road, Java, Virginia 24565 on the day of the service at 1:00 p.m.
Masks are required at all visitations and services. / Service may be viewed by Live Stream at/https://www.jldodsonandsons.com/LiveStream http://www.facebook.com/jldodsonandsons
Professional funeral services have been entrusted to the staff of the J.L. Dodson and Son Funeral Establishment, 447 Old South Main St. Danville, Va., Bishop Jeffrey L. Dodson, Sr.,
Funeral Director., (434)799-9262.
Online condolences may be registered at www.jldodsonandsons.com. “Our Family Servicing Your Family.”
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