Thomas “Tom” Lee Withers

Thomas “Tom” Lee Withers, 71, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 4, 2023, in Elkins, WV. Tom was born on August 14, 1951, in Grafton, WV, the son of the late Thomas Edward “Ed” Withers and Sylvia Helen (Poling) Withers.  Tom was the youngest of two children and is survived by his sister, Sandra Fay (Withers) Gainer of Grafton, WV.

Tom graduated from Grafton High School in 1969, Fairmont State College in 1973 with a bachelor’s in education and West Virginia University with a master’s in education.  Tom was a master electrician and teacher and spent most of life educating students about building construction and carpentry in West Virginia and Virginia.

Tom was a devoted Christian and outdoorsman.  He enjoyed spending his time hunting, fishing, hiking, canoeing and camping.  He had a passion for building design and construction methods.  He enjoyed wood working, restoring automobiles and canoeing through remote areas of the U.S. and Canada.  Tom was eager to share his faith in Jesus Christ and was always willing to help a friend or stranger in need.

In addition to his sister, Tom is survived by his son, Thomas Ryan Withers; daughter, Meredith Karyl (Withers) Will; daughter-in-law, Lydia Chystine Milnes; son-in-law, Joshua Duane Will; grandchildren, Beatrice Mozelle Withers, Makelti Klara Will, Jennings Delaney “Laney” Will, Thomas Reuben Withers; brother-in-law, Roger Gainer; nephew, Michael Ellis Gainer; former spouse, Karla K. Flores; and former partner Elizabeth “Liz” Keirsey

In honor of Tom’s wishes, he will be cremated and laid to rest near his friends and family at Woodsdale Cemetery in Grafton, WV.  The family intends to honor him with a service to be scheduled later.