Thomas Vranas passed away at home on the 19th of May 2019. Survived by his wife of 73 years, Roberta F. Vranas, two sons; Thomas L. of Hampton, VA and John B of Phoenix AZ, four grandchildren; Thomas L Vranas Jr of NC, Alexander Vranas of Seattle WA, Dawn Vranas of Breckenridge CO, Jessica Thompson of Smithfield VA, plus three great-grandchildren; Corinne, Kylee and Chloe all of Smithfield VA.

Thomas was born in New York, NY in 1918 of Greek emigrants George and Kaladona Vranas. He was the seventh of nine children. When his mother passed he, and some of his siblings were placed into a Half Orphan Home, where he was educated until graduation from Manhattan High School of Aviation Trades in 1935. He worked at DeVega Radio store then with Betts and Betts. He also worked on the iconic Wrigley's chewing gum sign on Times Square.  During WWII four of his brothers were in the service, so he joined hoping to be a pilot. While at Biloxi MS he was invited to come to NACA as a trial employment and after one year was honorably discharged from the Army Air Corp to begin a long career with NACA/NASA. There he worked on many projects including the X series planes, space vehicles and many electronic developments, receiving awards, recognitions and a patent. He became known as Mr. Strain Gauge, a device he helped improve over time.

As a youngster he would visit Yankee Stadium cheering for the Yankees. He witnessed such greats as Babe Ruth, Joe DiMaggio, Yogi Berra and Casey Stengel.  To earn ticket money he would play his harmonica between innings be given tips from the fans.  One of the greats he followed into adult hood was Mickey Mantle.  Upon reaching the young age of 100, the Yankees sent him a package of memorabilia at the request of his great-nephew Jake Cave, who had signed with the Yankees.

As a young adult he became involved in coaching girls/women fast-pitch softball teams and Men's Slow Pitch softball team of Lacrosse Presbyterian Church. The girls' team was so successful they were forced into the women's league. Struggling at first then becoming a team to fear. Many of the team members were from one family group, the Fullers of Phoebus. One was his wife, Roberta (AKA Dutchie). He gained sponsorship from Leggett's department store so they could enter many tournaments. He also was involved with the Phoebus Little League, Phoebus Pony League, an officer of the district and VA State Little League. He was an accomplished bowler who also helped form the first Women's Bowling League in the area as well as the Junior Bowling league at the Mayflower Bowling Alley in Phoebus.  He was later the President of the Hampton Roads Bowling Assoc. He was a scoutmaster of BSA Troop 128. "Suey" Eason, (of Hampton Parks and Recreation and Hampton High School coach) and Thomas worked closely to improve the youth athletics in Hampton. Later years he became involved in City affairs attending council meetings to offer suggestions and support for ideas he had passionate concerns.

He touched many young lives over the years, helped build places for youth activities and will be remembered and missed by family and friends.

A memorial service is planned for 2 PM June 2nd at the Lacrosse Memorial Presbyterian Church on Mallory St. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in his name to the charity of your choice.