Mr. Herbert Thomas “Tommy” Belote, 78, of Melfa, passed away Friday, Dec. 20, 2024, at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. Born Aug. 31, 1946, in Nassawadox, he was the son of the late Levin Bailey Belote and Virginia Budd Belote.
Tommy graduated from Onancock High School, class of 1964, and received his bachelor’s degree from East Carolina University. Following college, he returned home to the Eastern Shore and worked as a teacher for Accomack County Public Schools. He later became a security guard for Eastern Shore Seafood in Mappsville, where he worked for nearly two decades.
Tommy loved sports, a passion that began in his youth, having been well known at OHS for his athletic ability on the football, baseball, and track fields, as well as the basketball court. In his later years, he was often found watching college or professional football and never missed his favorite game shows. Tommy was a free spirit who lived each day on his terms, always embracing life with a laid back, authentic attitude. His independent nature was matched only by his love for his family, all of whom are grateful for the many memories they shared.
In addition to his parents, Tommy was predeceased by his sister, Lucia Evans. He is survived by his brother-in-law, Ivan Evans, of Onley; nephew, Otis Evans (Belinda), of Melfa; niece, Virginia B. Evans (Chuck), of Onancock; great-nephew, Wayne (Karen) and his daughter, Jazmine; and great-nieces, April and her daughter, Jordyn, and Ashley and her children, Landon and Libby.
The family will receive friends for a visitation at the Williams-Onancock Funeral Home on Saturday, Dec. 28, at 2 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 3 p.m., with the Rev. Russell Fail officiating. Interment will be held at the Fairview Lawn Cemetery.
Contributions in Tommy’s memory may be made to Riverside Shore Cancer Center, P.O. Box 430, Onancock, VA 23417.
Memory tributes may be shared with the family at
www.williamsfuneralhomes.com
Arrangements are by the Williams-Onancock Funeral Home.
