Robert "Bob" Arnold Thomas, 68, of Hayes, died Jan. 14, 2013 at his home.

Bob was retired from the U.S. Army after 22 years of service, and was associated with Advance Auto. Dad was a dedicated, loving husband who was faithfully married to his beloved wife, Christa Thomas, for 49 years. Together they enjoyed raising their four children. Dad especially loved family gatherings and was always the first to lend a hand. Dad enjoyed bird watching, fishing, gardening, restoring his vintage ’66 T-Bird, and playing his guitar.

He is survived by his wife, Christa; son, Robert A. Thomas Jr. and wife Laura; daughters, Sandra Thomas, Nancy Thomas and husband Rick, and Cindy Evans and husband Luke; sister, Sue Simpson; brother, Wayne Garfolo; five grandchildren, Steven Frankson, Tonya Deal, Charlotte Evans, Alexander Evans, and Travis Chapman, and great-grandson, William Deal.

The family will receive friends Thursday, Jan. 17, 2013, from 5-7 p.m. at Hogg Funeral Home, Gloucester Point. A memorial service officiated by Pastor Michael Messervy will be held at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 20, 2013, at Williamsburg Seventh-day Adventist Church.

In Robert’s memory, contributions may be sent to Williamsburg Seventh-day Adventist Church, 3989 John Tyler Highway, Williamsburg, Va. 23185.