Thomas Edward Draper

Tommy "Jim" Draper, 89, peacefully went home to be with his Lord on Sunday, June 4, 2023.

Tommy was born in Rockingham County, January 29, 1934, a son of the late Ira and Viola Cromer Draper. He had many occupations, the last being with Ken Mar Machine Shop. After his retirement, he repaired and sold lawn mowers for many years. Country music was a big part of Tommy's life and he was a self-taught guitar player. Tommy was a faithful member of Shining Light Baptist Church as long as his health permitted.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Louise Draper; his son, Robert Draper and two sisters, Louise Loflin and Dorothy Coltrane.

Surviving are a daughter, Dana Staley and her husband Herb; a son, Tony Draper and his wife Catherine; three grandchildren, David Draper and his wife Sarah, Mark Draper and his wife Courtney and Christy Knight; four great-grandchildren, Micah, Caleb, Taylor and Noah. The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Natalie Smith for her loving care of Tommy.

A Celebration of Tommy's life will be held Sunday, June 11, 2023 at 3 p.m. in the Sechrest-Davis Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 2 until 3 p.m. Memorials may be directed to Shining Light Baptist Church.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sechrestdavisphillipsavenue.com for the Draper family.