Thomas Wayne “Slick” Grant, 73, of Rice, Virginia, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family following several years of health struggles.

Born in Lynchburg, Virginia, he was the son of Homer and Joyce Neas Grant. Thomas and his four siblings grew up without many of the conveniences of modern life, including indoor plumbing. Those humble beginnings helped shape his strong work ethic and lifelong commitment to caring for others.

Thomas graduated from Cumberland High School in 1971, where he was a talented three-sport athlete. His accomplishments later earned him a place in the Cumberland Athletics Hall of Fame.

As a young man, Thomas developed a reputation for hard work. He worked for W. A. Price and Seay Milling before serving as vice president of Safeway Grocery Store. He married Cindy, the love of his life, and together they built a home and raised their two sons, Casey and J. T. Family was always at the center of his life, and he took great pride in providing for those he loved.

In 1987, Thomas joined the family business, Grant’s Glass, where he spent 32 years helping build and manage the company. He was an excellent leader who earned the respect of employees and customers alike. He loved working with people and took particular pride in working alongside his mother, Joyce; his brothers, Jesse and Stewart; his son, Casey; and his nephews, Jon, Adam, and Clayton. He believed in working hard, keeping his word, and building relationships that lasted.

Thomas was a very generous man who was always willing to lend a hand to a friend in need. He had a great sense of humor and loved sharing playful banter with his many friends. When he wasn’t at work, he loved being outdoors. Whether cutting firewood, working on projects around the farm, or playing golf, he was happiest when staying busy and working with his hands.

In 2019, Thomas suffered a stroke that began a difficult period of declining health. Although the stroke took away much of his ability to speak, it never took away the personality that made him who he was. Through expressive eyes, hilarious facial expressions, and one- or two-word phrases, he continued to communicate with those around him, reminding everyone that his sense of humor and unmistakable spirit were still very much intact.

Throughout his health struggles, Thomas was blessed with the unwavering love and support of his wife, Cindy, who stood faithfully by his side around the clock. She cared for him with extraordinary love, patience and strength through every challenge. Her dedication was a true reflection of the deep love they shared. Despite the difficulties, she brought comfort, encouragement, and warmth to his days, making sure he was surrounded by love and cared for with dignity throughout his illness.

Thomas is survived by his wife, Cindy Grant; his sons, Casey Grant (Alex) and J. T. Grant (Heather); his six grandchildren, Lillian, Scarlett, Avery, Holden, Jasper, and Mattie; and his sister, Barbara Grant Eanes. He was also affectionately known as “Uncle Slick” to his nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Homer and Joyce Neas Grant; and his brothers, Stewart, Jesse, and Franklin Grant.

Thomas will be remembered as a big, strong man with a deep, booming voice and an even bigger heart. He spent his life working hard, helping others, and making sure the people around him were taken care of. His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the business he helped build, the friendships he cherished, and the many lives he touched along the way.

Memorial contributions may be made to the SPCA  or PEFYA, (Prince Edward Farmville Youth Association)