Thomas A. Smith
Share
***A Celebration of Life for Thomas A. Smith will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 29, 2022 at Hope Chapel, 12480 S. Blackbob Road, Olathe, Kansas 66062. ***
In the early morning hours of Monday, Dec 13 2021, Thomas A Smith was escorted into Jesus’ presence by the angels on assignment surrounding him. He left this life peacefully, though suddenly and unexpectedly and was surrounded by loved ones.
Tom was born on October 1, 1956 in Beckley, West Virginia. He was the youngest child of Agnes Farmer Smith and William Thomas Smith. Tom is survived by his wife of 35 years, Diane of Baldwin City, his children, Austin and Kristen, and sister Nancy and husband Pete Widdoes and their children Aaron and Courtney Widdoes of Pennsylvania.
His family moved to Newark, DE when Tom was 2 years old. He attended Newark HS where he was active in football, the Madrigal choir, and obtained his Eagle Scout. He completed his BS degree in Civil Engineering in 1978 from the University of Delaware and began his engineering career in Newark.
Tom saw life as a grand adventure, he traveled from Delaware to Jackson Hole in 1981 where he spent a number of years working as an engineer for the forest service, he so loved Jackson Hole his Instagram name was @homesick4tetons. Tom followed his calling into the ministry several years later obtaining his master of divinity degree at Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, CA. While there he met and married his wife Diane Sinclair-Smith in 1986. As a childless couple, for ten year’s they traveled up and down the coast of CA to Mexico, Hawaii, and back to Jackson Hole. Upon graduation from Seminary, Tom began various development positions with Fuller Theological Seminary, Forrest Home Christian Camp, and Central Baptist Seminary in KS.
His first child was born in CA prior to his move to KS. A son Austin, his daughter was born once in KS in 1998, Kristen. He spent 10 years in a pastoral position with a Vineyard church in Overland Park, KS. He was always happiest when he was caring for and helping others, providing marriage services and other shepherding roles. The next season took him back into development positions with Intervarsity and most recently as Senior Director of Transformational Partnerships/Legacy Giving with the Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF). He was excited to work with this wonderful organization for the rest of his life. He was so impressed by the morals and integrity of ADF and their fight for life, liberty, truth and freedom.
In 2019, Tom and Diane bought their dream farm in a hilly valley in KS. Tom was the happiest he’d been in years, loving the “Ranch” and all the work it entailed. There are many fond memories of the days working out in the barn fixing stalls, digging drainage ditches around the pond, and stacking hay together and dreaming of shooting the buck he’d been watching on his trail cams.
Tom will forever be missed by his surviving children, Austin Josiah Sinclair Smith, 25 years old who will be residing at the Ranch during a transitional season and Kristen Joy Sinclair Smith, 23 years old who is completing her Master’s Degree at KSU. He instilled his love of the outdoors in them.
Memorial donations may be made to Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) two ways:
1. Give electronically at www.adflegal.org/giveagift
2. Give by phone at (800) 835-5233 and while on the phone be sure to mention that the gift was given in honor of Tom Smith or may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.
I am so very sorry for your loss. Tom was one of the good ones. We went to school together and i admired him for his kindness towards everyone. Praying for you all.
We love you Diane, Austin & Kristen!! Praying often for peace & comfort wonderful memories we’ll have forever!!
Vivian and I are so saddened by the news …Tom was always so supportive and encouraging. He made everyone feel special…he will be missed ..Ronnie Bradshaw
Tom married 2 of our daughters as well as our son-in-law’s brother. He did such a nice job! We really enjoyed getting to know Tom and appreciated the great job he did at the ceremonies. He was a great man and he will be missed. We will keep Tom and your family in our thoughts and prayers. Take care! Terri and Rick Murphy
Tom was one of the best this old earth has to offer. I will miss him greatly.
I have so many great memories of working with Tom at Fuller Seminary. He was always encouraging, truthful, and fun! Tom always kept the main thing in focus, never wavering from his purpose in Christ and all the various roads that led him down. I’m so glad Bill and I got to visit you on the Ranch this summer. Sweet memories. Our love and prayers to you Diane and kids.
Tom and I were teammates at Newark High School in Delaware. What I remember most was his character and how so many of us respected, and look to him for leadership. So sorry for your loss.
Daniel and I met Tom when we visited Vineyard OP in 2006. He was so welcoming and friendly. He always greeted us with a big smile and handshake, one if the most friendly people I have ever known. We did get to have dinner with you guys at Smokestack which was lots of fun but we so missed him when you left Vineyard.
I have kept up with Tom through the years on facebook but if course thats not the same as that gregarious spirit in person.
It is just sad knowing Tom is not out there in the world somewhere living life and making someones day brighter by just being Tom. What a wonderful example of Jesus love that he was!
Kathy and Daniel Ronning
So sorry for your loss. Knew Tom as a little boy who grew into a wonderful adult. Tom never forgot his roots and was such a family man.
God’s blessings to all of you.
Thinking of you all and sending our prayers. We loved Tom and the time that we got to spend with him while at Vineyard.
Tom married my brother and his wife in 2013 and my wife and I in 2018.
Tom was an amazing man whose morals will forever be with into us.
Tom taught us the most important thing in marriage- that it’s not between you and your spouse, but between God, your spouse, and you. A chord of three strands is not easily broken.
Tom will be greatly missed. Wishing you peace and comfort.
Tom was such an encouragement and blessing to me and so many others. He modeled a servant’s heart!!! His love for his family friends and the Lord was evident!! He leaves a bountiful legacy and made a difference for Eternity in so many lives!!! Well done Good and Faithful Servant!!!!
Tom is one of those guys that come along once in your lifetime. Bigger than life, a great smile, full of the joy of Christ and of the life he was living…he will be so missed. We loved seeing his posts about his adventures and hard work on the ranch. He was, as they say, livin’ the dream. Prayers and sympathy to all of you with much love from the Kings.
Diane and Family, Patty and I were so saddened to here the news about Tom. He was such a light in this world for all of us and a delight to be around . I think his friend Gary Ascanio said it well Tom truly: “modeled a servant’s heart’” and he did it with a smile on his face. He will be dearly missed.
Tom was a faithful man of God who loved others as he himself was loved by his Father in heaven. I’m so grateful to have worked with him for so many years. He married two of my daughters, shared a love of shooting with my son and was a never-ending source of encouragement and unselfish support to me in his time here at Vineyard. What a wonderful, faithful husband, father and friend. Prayers and love to Diane and the whole family. You are loved! ~ Mark and Dianne Warner
Tom was so friendly and assisted me as a new member of the Vineyard. Prayers and teaching , kindness and smiles. I will always remember this special man of God. Prayers go out to his family.
Nancy Jansen
Tom will be greatly missed! His love for Jesus, wife, son & daughter, and for life!! You all have my deepest sympathy. I will continue to pray for you all.
Hugs & Blessings!!
Tom was sent to us from God . Over the years his wisdom was amazing. My husband thought Tom could walk on water. He knew Toms heart and love for Jesus like no other. To say he will be missed is a understatement. Doug will have to grow in the word without Toms guidance. He shoes will never be filled. Our prayer is now for Diane and the kids. There loss can’t be counted in earthly terms . Only God can carry them during this tough times. We were so Blessed to have known Tom . Can’t wait to reconnect in Heaven .
God has called home another good and faithful servant in Tom, I can see Tom smiling even now. We enjoyed Tom all of those years at Vineyard, but was so happy to have been able to visit him at “The Ranch” and see what joy it was for him, a dream come true. Deb and I extend our love and heart felt condolences to Diane and family. God bless you and give you peace in this difficult time.
Diane, we are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Tom was a huge part of my time spent at the Vineyard. He will be greatly missed by so many lives he touched.
Our condolences and prayers to your family. Reuben and Laquita Rabanal and family. Tom was a big supporter for Troop 522.
Tom was always so kind and ready with with a big smile and encouraging words. He was a servant for Jesus.
Peace and comfort to you,
Diane and Austin and Kristen.
Tom was larger than life to me. So winsome, Godly and wise. It was obvious that he spent time in the Word of God and was so like Jesus! He will be DEARLY missed and this is another reminder that the earth is not our home. Can’t wait to see him again one day. He’ll probably have a quip, “what took ya so long, come on in!” Eternity will be sweet!
Tom was always the one who brought life and laughter into the room during his years on our Advancement team in InterVarsity. His generous and servant heart was a great gift to all. I know he will be dearly missed. May Jesus’ comfort and presence be known in deep ways during these days of loss and may Tom’s legacy of love and light continue in all hearts of those he touched.
Cousin Tom you will be missed. We will miss you but know that one day we will meet again. That smile will always be remembered. Love to Diane,Austin and Kristen. We will be praying for you all.
Such a shock to hear of Tom’s move to heaven. We had coffee a few weeks before this sad news. As always, he was a great listener and prayer warrior. Praying for you, Diane and family. Tucked in my memories are moments shared at Fuller Theo. Seminary.
Tom was a high school classmate and It’s been many years since we were in touch but he was a sweetheart even then and I am very sad to hear of his passing. I’m sure he’s in the arms of God and will hopefully greet us all again one day. Blessed to have called him a friend.
Brian Noyes:
Tom and I were the team captains of the (74) Newark Yellowjackets Football team together. Tom was considered by the team as thier spiritual leader and was loved for his caring personality. While I lost touch with “Tommy” I always felt most fortunate to call him friend. Rest in peace Tom, I’ll always carry you in my heart.
When I first met Tom we were working at the little house next to the Vineyard church, we just talked about basic spiritual issues, Nothing deep just talking. I could tell instantly he was genuine & caring….. My opinion never changed over the years. A man who lived pleasing to the Lord.
Cindy and Brad Morton:
Tom was bigger than his smile and his heart! He loved others and we always
knew Tom cared. He was such a servant of the Lord and was such a blessing
during his time at Vineyard. A hug from Tom Smith was a direct connection
to heaven. We know Jesus is laughing, listening and loving Tom. He will be
missed.
–
I was a young buck when Tom was a senior. It was my first varsity football ride on a bus to an away game. As usual we won the game. On the way home Tom would lead a chorus of chants….”Can Newark Senior High be beat, hell no! We kept it up all the way back. Rest in peace my yellowjacket brother. Ap
Oh my. I’m just so, so sad about Tom. Diane, Austin and Kristen I am praying that God’s Comfort and Peace is surrounding you. Tom and I would communicate via the “social media” sites. He and I were always in agreement. ✝️ I remember when I was hospitalized that Tom came to to the hospital to pray for me. He found my door shut and didn’t want to disturb me. Later he called me and prayed for me. What a joy knowing his sweet and lovely heart cared for me to get well.
I’ll always remember him at Vineyard, the skits that he was part of and the fact that he was just a really great person. I know he is enjoying The Presence Of Jesus and that his mansion in Heaven is a wonderful, a ranch more beautiful than we can even imagine. May God Bless your family and I’ll bet Tom looks in on all of you now and then. Just something I think he’d do.
Tom was one of those men who you could trust with your darkest secret and know that his only intent was to walk you through. I will forever be grateful that God caused us to meet up.
Diane, Kristen and Austin, I was so sorry to hear of Tom’s sudden passing, and want you to know that Alliance Defending Freedom counted him as a friend and fellow warrior in the battle for religious freedom. I met Tom when I became chairman of the ADF Foundation Board of Directors. I now also serve on the ADF Ministry Board of Directors. Tom worked both for the Foundation and for the ADF development team. I so appreciated his friendship and warmth in my every encounter with him. He loved Christ and His Kingdom, and worked to raise support for kingdom advance, and to keep the doors open for the Gospel in the US and around the world. Tom will be missed. Keep in touch with your ADF family. Yours in Christ, Mike.
Tom was a great man who loved Jesus with all his heart. We had some great talks and times of prayer together over the years. I loved his energy, concern for others, and exceedingly quick wit. He will be greatly missed. Praying for Diane, Kristen, and Austin. Tom left a wonderful stamp on your life and his legacy will continue to shine through your lives.
Bruce and Judith Young
So, so sorry to hear of Tom’s sudden passing, dear Diane, Austin & Kristen ! (We came to know of it only today, when our Christmas card got returned …) He was so kind, & such an unforgettable blessing to us.
Love u guys, & praying for God’s infinite grace & blessings to cover you, now & in the coming days !!
Dear Diane and Family, we are so sorry for your loss. Tom held such a place in my heart and the Lord used him significantly in my life. I will forever cherish the time we were able to travel together to Eduador on a missions trip and had a great time with Mark and Diane and the Wrights. He was like a fountain that always gave out and the water was pure and sweet. Please accept our condolences for his passing.
So sorry for your loss. Tom and I went to school together and I too was in the madrigals . He was a great person.
Austin Sinclair and family, I will miss Tom. I meant to get to know you better but you all left Vineyard OP before I got the chance. I do remember Tom’s smile that I knew came from a heart that loved Jesus. The morning I read that Tom Died in Facebook I about fell over in shock.. he was a voice of conservatism and love on my Facebook page. It’s not the same without him. I pray God’s love and Goodness surround you. I lost my dad the same month. So I pray God get you through this.. your friend Jim Burns
Diane, Austin and Kristen,
Tom had such a large impact in Bill’s and my life! He was overflowing with God’s love with his contagious smile, laugh and warm hugs as he enveloped you in his arms. We admired and respected him so much as a shepherd. He was always available to give a kind or encouraging word, and a helpful piece of Christian advice. He will be truly missed; we are grateful that we get to see him again in heaven. We are praying for your peace and comfort, and may God wrap you in His loving arms and carry you through this trying time.
Tom and I were friends for more than 50 years, 9th grade through college and beyond. Our last conversation was at Thanksgiving. We shared many of life’s challenges together. He traveled life as an athlete, a musician, a lover of all things outdoors, a consummate Christian and family man. He was responsible for bringing my husband into my life and I am forever grateful. Our love to Nancy, Diane and family. Eileen Tully Willey (and Woodrow Willey Jr.)
Diane,
Please know Chris and I are keeping you and your children in our prayers. We’re thankful to have know Tom this side of Heaven. He was so supportive and caring of us early in our marriage and we’re ever so thankful for you and Tom’s friendship. We rejoice with you that he’s with Jesus and weep with you that he’s left us for now. Praying for peace and grace as you journey this time of grief. Bless you friend – we know our Heavenly Father will be your strength – All our Love – Chris and Julie Heese
Wow…reading the condolences and Tom’s life story…sad to see Tom go, but heaven is rejoicing. I knew Tom well in middle school and high school….and you all captured him well, a truly servant of God. I remember the sleepovers at his home growing up….on Kirkwood Highway… truly fun !