1946-2012

WAYNESVILLE — Thomas Allan Walsh, 66, of Marretta Lane, passed away Friday, Sept. 28, 2012, at Autumn Care Nursing Home.

A native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, he had previously lived in Illinois, California, and Wisconsin before moving to Haywood County in 2007. He was the son of the late John Joseph and Virginia Charlotte Guntz Walsh and was also preceded in death by a stepson, Gregory Austin and a step great-grandson, Daniel Mentink. Tom retired in 2005 from CSX Railroad with 35 years of service with CSX and other railroads.

He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Elizabeth Lavonne Buchanan Walsh; one brother, John Walsh of Humble, Texas; two stepsons, Michael Hughes and wife, Bonnie, and John Hughes and his wife, Jennifer; stepdaughter-in-law, Nancy Austin; step grandchildren, Melanie and Lisa Callis, Daniel, Patrick, Jacob, and Hannah Austin; and Stephanie Correale and John Hughes and seven step-great-grandchildren, all of Illinois.  He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

Wells Funeral Homes & Cremation Services of Waynesville is in charge of arrangements.  An online memorial register is available at www.wellsfuneralhome.com.