Thomas Spoon
Thomas Ray Spoon, 70, of Ringgold, faithful husband, father, and papaw, made his transition to his eternal home to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, September 29, 2020, surrounded by his loving family.
Ray was born and raised in Columbia, Ky., until he was drafted into the U.S. Army. As a patriot, Ray honorably served his country for 14 years. He served in the 88th Transportation Company as a Heavy Vehicle Driver during the Vietnam conflict then reenlisted into the U.S. Navy as a Construction Seabee and Boatswain’s Mate in Argentina and on the USS Independence for a total of 14 years. Once honorably discharged, Ray moved to Trenton, Ga., and met his wife Sheila Thompson. He was a Journeyman Pipe Fitter and a member of Plumbers and Steamfitters Union Local 43. Ray worked for the Chattanooga Coca-Cola Bottling Co. for 15 years and for 40 plus years he faithfully served his Lord and Savior through his church, The Crossing of Chattanooga, formerly East Ridge Church of God. He served in the Bus Ministry, choir, greeting, maintenance, and never said no to any task that needed to be done. Ray lived by the verses Matthew 25:34-36, 40 and faithfully served “as unto the Lord.” He bled orange and enjoyed watching the Vols and the Braves. Ray cherished his family and was considered the glue that kept them together.
Ray was preceded in death by his mother, Lida Mae Spoon; brother, DeWayne Judd; twin grandchildren, Goodness and Mercy, and Grace and Hope; and sister-in-law, Sandra Wall.
Survivors include his loving wife, Sheila Thompson; sons, Thomas Ryan (Lanissa) Spoon and Jonathan (Danielle) Spoon; grandchildren: Jonathan and Levi Spoon; brother, Billy (Delores) Spoon; sister-in-law, Linda (Jerry) Smith; brother-in-law, Stanley (Judy) Thompson; and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held Friday, Oct. 2, at 9:30 a.m. in the South Crest Chapel. Interment will follow with military honors in the Chattanooga National Cemetery escorted by the Patriot Guard Riders who will also serve as pallbearers.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to J. Spoon at P.O. Box 518, Rossville, to assist with medical expenses.
Condolences may be shared and webcasting of funeral services are available at lane-southcrestchapel.com.
Arrangements are by the South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home & Crematory, Rossville.