Thomas E. Hensley, 54, of South Charleston formerly of St. Albans, passed away Saturday, August 8, 2009 at Thomas Memorial Hospital in South Charleston with his loving family at his side.

Tom was born December 28, 1954 in South Charleston and was the son of the late Robert E. and Bobby S. Hensley of St. Albans.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandson Michael E. Lloyd, brothers, Steve, Bruce and Arthur Hensley, his in-laws Harold S. and Ellen M. Hannon, whom he adored.

Tom is survived by his devoted wife of 30 years, Ellen A. Hensley, sons Gary D. Lloyd of Alum Creek, Jeremy M. Lloyd and Joshua H. Hensley of South Charleston, Shane T. Hensley of Castlewood, VA and Jesse A. Hensley of St. Albans; grandsons Jeremy and Brandon and granddaughters, Erica, Brooke, Lilly, Anna and Isabella; brother Jerry Hensley of Tallmadge, Ohio and sisters, Sue Childers and Jeannie Hardwick of South Charleston and Sheila Hensley of Princeton and many nieces, nephews and several great nieces and nephews that were dear to him.

Tom was an Army Veteran proudly serving his Country in Germany as a Recovery Specialist, B troop 1st of 1st Cav. during the Vietnam Era. Tom was formerly employed as a meat cutter at South Charleston and Sissonville Foodland, a painter for Maaco Auto Painting and then as a heavy equipment operator which he really enjoyed. Tom was an accomplished self-taught guitar player and had a beautiful singing voice, often playing for his family and friends.

Tom was a loving husband and wonderful father and grandfather. Always putting his family first. He was a true friend and will be forever loved and missed by all. His time here was much too short. In the hearts of his family, no one will ever take his place.

Funeral Services will be held at 2 p.m., Thursday, August 13, at Keller Funeral Home in Dunbar with burial following at Fox Hill Cemetery.

Friends may call 2 hours prior to the service at Keller Funeral Home, Dunbar.