Thomas Rugg

CW3, Retired Army Veteran, Thomas A. Rugg, 72 of Fayetteville, passed away, May 22, 2015 after a long illness. Mr. Rugg was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Born in Elmo, Utah, he is the son of Wilburn and Lena McEwen Rugg. Mr. Rugg retired from the US Army after 20 years of service. He is preceded in death by his parents and a brother Stephen Lorane Rugg.

He is survived by his loving and caring wife of 51 years, Linda; a daughter, Jennie Smith and husband Randell of Wagram; sons, Thomas Jr. of Indiana and Timothy Rugg and wife Hollie of Fayetteville; 6 grandchildren, Cory, Lauren, Emma, Clayton, Archie, James; 3 step grandchildren, Gabby, Ryan, Kaitlyn, and one great-grandchild, Abigail; brothers, Seth of Puerto Rico, Phillip and Norman of North Carolina, and Roger of Utah; sisters, Margerie Morley, Irene Rugg and Lillian Parker of Utah, and Melvina Sparks of Illinois.

Mr. Rugg will be missed by all who loved and knew him. His children and family are very proud of him, not just for his service to the US Army, but for his character and love for Jesus Christ. Mr. Rugg was a devoted husband and father to his family. He was always a helpful man, inventive, resourceful, a leader, witty, and humble. He not only worked hard to support his family, he cared about his church family and lead by example, helping in the community. There is not enough gratitude that can be expressed for the kind deeds he has done for others throughout his life. Mr. Rugg will be truly missed.

The family would like to extend a personal thanks to the family members, friends, and neighbors who spent extra love and time to assist Mr. Rugg during his last years. Also, to the Cape Fear Valley Cancer Institute, doctors, nurses, and EMT for their support during his illness. And to the merciful and helpful nurses at Autumn Care in Raeford, the ones who showed respect and kindness for his well-being, the family sends their heartfelt gratitude.