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Portrait of Thomas James Andrus
In Loving Memory of

Thomas James Andrus

March 2, 1951 – January 1, 2025
Lived 73 years
Claybar, Hillcrest Gardens · Orange, TX
Life story

Thomas James Andrus, a man of boundless love and a passion for all things mechanical, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2025, at the age of 73. Born on March 2, 1951, Tom lived a life rich in love, laughter, and an enduring sense of adventure.

Tom had a lifelong love for motorcycles. He found great joy not only in riding but also in spending countless hours fixing and restoring motorcycles to their former glory. With grease-stained hands and a twinkle in his eye, he poured his heart into every project, a testament to his remarkable skill and dedication.

Tom also found great joy in his career as a truck driver. He loved the open road, the freedom of driving, and the adventures that came with his work. After many years behind the wheel, he retired with countless memories and stories of his journeys.

At the core of Tom’s life was his family. For 50 wonderful years, he shared his life with his devoted wife, Carolyn Andrus. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with cherished memories. He was a proud father to his son, Eric Andrus, who, alongside his wife Caitlin, blessed Tom with his beloved granddaughter, Diana. She was the light of his life, and his love for her knew no bounds.

Tom’s love extended to his siblings, Donny Andrus and his wife, Anita, as well as Cindy Vandiver and her husband, Fred. He was also deeply cherished by a host of nieces and nephews, whose lives he touched with his warmth, humor, and generosity.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Laura Mae Andrus and Raymond Andrus, who undoubtedly welcomed him with open arms.

Those who knew Tom will remember his kind spirit, his infectious laughter, and the way he made everyone feel welcome and loved. His legacy of love, family, and a zest for life will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

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The world Thomas knew

Family milestones in gold, history for context

1951
Born March 2
1958
Thomas was 7 when the Hula Hoop craze swept the country
1963
Thomas was 12 when Texan Lyndon B. Johnson was sworn in as president
1976
Thomas was 25 when America celebrated its Bicentennial
1982
Thomas was 31 when "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" opened in theaters
1994
Thomas was 43 when "Friends" premiered
2007
Thomas was 56 when the first iPhone went on sale
2014
Thomas was 63 when the Ice Bucket Challenge went viral
2022
Thomas was 71 when ChatGPT was released to the public
2025
Passed away January 1, age 73
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Claybar, Hillcrest Gardens
Orange, TX
Plot: Lot 28, Block A, Space 1
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