Thomas William McBride

Thomas William McBride was born on January 25, 1936, in Ruby, South Carolina, to parents Willie (“Popsie”) and Glennie (“Momsie”) McBride. He was the only living son among ten children born to this union. In pursuit of greater opportunities, the family eventually relocated to Massillon, Ohio, where Thomas attended Franklin Elementary School and met the love of his life, Dorothy Ann Dorsey, in the fourth grade. Their relationship blossomed through high school, where Thomas proudly attended Washington High School, home of the Massillon T.I.G.E.R.S., and excelled as a member of the football and basketball teams.

On June 13, 1955, Thomas and Dorothy sealed their lifelong love in marriage. Shortly thereafter, Thomas honorably served in the U.S. Army for three years. During this time, Dorothy shared the joyous news that she was expecting their first child, Thomas W. McBride II (“Lucky”). Their love story continued to grow as they welcomed three more children: Mark W. McBride, David W. McBride, and Leila A. McBride. Together, they built a strong foundation of love, family, and faith, sharing sixty-one beautiful years of marriage.

Thomas’ faith was central to his life. For the past seven years, he was a dedicated and supportive member of Rock Spring Missionary Baptist Church in Ruby South Carolina, under the leadership of Rev. Woodrow McManus. He also served faithfully as a Deacon at New Hope Baptist Church in Denver, Colorado. His commitment to the Lord and his church communities was a cornerstone of his life.

Professionally, Thomas took pride in his role as an entrepreneur but his work as a landowner held special significance. Owning land for Thomas was more than a profession, it was a mission to reclaim what had been lost to injustice and to preserve his family’s legacy. He often declared, “I will never sell this land to anybody. It stays in the family,” a testament to his unwavering commitment to honor his ancestors and bless future generations.

Thomas enjoyed the simple joys of life, including fishing, attending church, watching television, and savoring his favorite treat chocolate cake. He was a gentle, sweet, and loving soul who touched everyone he met with his kindness and faithfulness. Those closest to him remember his generosity, wisdom, and steadfast dedication to his family and community.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie and Glennie McBride; his beloved wife, Dorothy Ann McBride; three sons, Thomas W. McBride II (“Lucky”), Mark W. McBride, and David W. McBride; and one brother, T.C. Myers.

Thomas is survived by his loving daughter, Leila Ann McBride; his devoted sister, Linda McBride Kelly-Smith of Rock Hill, SC and his cherished grandchildren Lia, Timothy, Mark II, Rose, Thomas III, Elizabeth, Latisha, Latasha, Brittany, Brinnah, Niya, and 5 great-grandchildren. Nephew Hayward Kelly (Geraldine) of Denver CO, his niece, Christian Kelly-Gatlin (“Chrissy”) of Rock Hill, SC who cared for him with the 7 plus years when he moved to SC with unwavering love. Special cousins Mildred Ratliff of Cheraw, SC who help care for him, Lee McBride who provided invaluable support, managing his affairs in Massillon, Ohio, while Thomas resided in Denver, Colorado.

Thomas passed away peacefully on December 26, 2024, in South Carolina. His passing leaves a profound void but also an enduring legacy of faith, love, and perseverance.

Those left to cherish his memory include family, friends, and all whose lives he touched. Today, we celebrate Thomas William McBride’s remarkable life and commit to carrying his legacy forward-in faith, family, and the land he so deeply treasured.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 10, 2025, from 11 am – 12 pm (Noon) at the Paquelet Funeral Home with a Home Going Celebration at 12 pm. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. Those unable to attend may view the live stream below. To share a memory with Thomas’s family, please sign the online guest book.