1st Sgt (Ret) Thomas Craig Denney, Sr.

1st. Sgt. Thomas (Tommy) Denney Sr., passed away Saturday, July 29, 2023, at Alpha Wing, Martinsburg Veterans Palliative Care Unit Community Living Center, following a valiant battle with glioblastoma. 

Tommy was the youngest of five children born to Mary Frances Miley Denney and William Herman Denney, Sr., who preceded him in death. Also preceding him in death was his sister, Joan Gonter. 

Tommy joined the Army in 1966 and served at his first duty station in Nurnberg, Germany where he met his first wife, Ursula. In 1968, they welcomed their son, Tom Jr. Tommy was sent to Viet Nam and while there he received the news that his brother, CPT. William (Billy) H. Denney Jr., also serving in Viet Nam, had been killed in action. Tommy at the age of 21, had the daunting task of being the Military Escort accompanying his brother home to be laid to rest. Tommy dedicated the rest of his life to ensuring Billy was recognized for his service, leadership, and sacrifice in the Viet Nam conflict. 

After 20 years of miliary service Tommy retired from the Army and returned home to Moorefield, WV. He ran his own business, drove a school bus, and worked at the local armory. Tommy loved his community and was an active member in both the local VFW, American Legion and 40 & 8. He married his second wife, Phyllis Bean Denney. Together, they enjoyed a wonderful life. They traveled, fished, and hosted family and friends for special occasions and many WVU football games. Phyllis preceded him in death, and this broke his heart, yet he carried on in his final years, finding joy in the birth of his great grandson (Cydney), and the love of his closest friends. 

Tommy is survived by his son, Thomas Denney, Jr. (Lavenda), his granddaughter Victoria Denney (Codey), and his great grandson (Cydney), his sisters, Karen Lennox and Suzanne Mezzadri, and a long and loving list of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. 

The family would like to extend its gratitude to "Team Tommy" the best, dedicated group of friends a man could have! Additionally, the family thanks his VA Primary Base Homecare Team, Grant Memorial Hospice, Martinsburg Veterans Palliative Care Unit, Virginia Brain and Spine, Shenandoah Oncology and the amazing people of Moorefield and Hardy County. 

A private ceremony will be held at a later date to honor Tommy and thank those who cared for him during this fight with brain cancer. 

Memorial donations in Tommy's honor may be made to; 40/8 Nurses Scholarship Fund , Attn: Nurses Program Director, 496 Evening Street, Moorefield, WV 26836.

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