Thomas Dillion Laney, Jr.

Thomas Dillon Laney, Jr., passed away on September 11, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born on October 5, 1951, in Washington, D.C., to Thomas Dillon Laney, Sr., and Mary Lee Heatwole.

Thomas graduated from New Trier East High School in 1969. He went on to attend Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music in 1974. He continued his education at Scarritt College, earning a Master of Church Music degree in 1982.

Music was an important part of Thomas' life. For 40 years, he shared his musical talents as a church musician at various churches throughout West Texas and in Symphony Orchestras and Jazz Bands. He also spent 10 years as an English teacher at Aim High in Odessa, Texas.

On September 22, 1973, Thomas married Judith Hrodey in Decatur, Illinois. Together they spent nearly 53 years building a life centered around family and faith.

Thomas deeply loved his family, especially the time he spent with his grandsons. He enjoyed taking them to the movies and hearing what they had learned that day. His love of music remained a constant throughout his life, and drums were his passion. He also enjoyed reading a good book and sharing a good pun.

Thomas had a special love for dogs, which had been a part of his adult life. His latest companion, J.S. Bark, brought him great joy and comfort.

Those who knew Thomas knew he was highly intelligent and knowledgeable on many subjects. He could not be beaten at a game of Trivia. He was in many ways a Renaissance man who loved studying apologetics with a deep appreciation for music and the arts.

Thomas is survived by his wife, Judith; his daughter, Catherine Everett, and her husband, Don; his son, Tom Laney III, and his wife, Amy; and his grandsons, Benjamin Everett, Thomas Laney IV, James Everett, and Peter Laney.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026 from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m at Combest Family Funeral Homes, 2210 Broadway, Lubbock, Texas 79401. A memorial service will follow at 4:00 p.m.