Sturgis, Thomas Johnson

Thomas Johnson Sturgis died Tuesday, August 21, 2018 at English Meadows, in Christiansburg, Va. Johnson was born on June 14, 1919 and was the son of James Phonso and Margaret Evelyn Williams Sturgis of Rock Hill, S.C. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 68 years, Anna Beth Lupo, his daughter, Sibyl Ann, as well as all of his siblings.

Johnson is survived by his daughter, Ellie Sturgis; his daughter-in-law Deborah Burchard, both of Christiansburg, Va.; and his many nieces and nephews.

Johnson graduated from Winthrop Training School and attended Furman University. He worked for over 60 years at Moore Furniture Store, eventually serving as a co-owner and president of the company. He served in the United States Army Air Force during World War II. Because he was stationed stateside throughout the war, Anna Beth was able to accompany him to all of his posts, years that were precious to them.

He was an active member of St. Johns Methodist Church of Rock Hill where he sang in the choir and served in a number of capacities. He was a member of the Kiwanis Club. Johnson was devoted to his family, faith, friends, many customers, his yard, and his numerous dogs. He always made his wife and daughters his highest priority and considered the family to be his most important legacy. Always present with a gentle spirit and sweet smile, he never met a stranger.

A memorial service will be held at Christ Episcopal Church, Blacksburg, Va. on Saturday, September 29, 2018 at 2 p.m. A graveside service is planned for Saturday, October 13, 2018 at 11 a.m. at Laurelwood Cemetery in Rock Hill, S.C. Greene Funeral Home is handling arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts can be made to St. Johns United Methodist Church, Rock Hill S.C. or Good Samaritan Hospice of Christiansburg, Va.