Thomas A. Noble

Thomas A. Noble, a man whose sense of humor was as timeless as the classic cars he adored, has taken his final bow on the grand stage of life on December 22, 2023, at the age of 77. Born on a sunny day in Tampa, FL, on February 13, 1946, Thomas was a beacon of joy who could light up any room with his infectious laughter and quick-witted charm. He passed away in Mauldin, SC, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a garage full of memories.

Thomas, known to friends and family simply as "Thomas," was the proud owner of his own Auto Body Shop, where he didn't just fix cars; he restored pieces of history and made countless friends along the way. His customers didn't just come in for a new coat of paint; they came for the comedy show that was Thomas's daily routine. He'd say, "A car is just like life; a few dents and dings are just part of the story."

His passions were as eclectic as his tool collection. Thomas could strum the guitar with the finesse of a rock star one minute and reel in a fish with the expertise of a seasoned angler the next. The beach was his sanctuary, where he'd often say, "The only thing better than the sand between your toes is the rust-free undercarriage of a '65 Mustang."

Thomas was the embodiment of the word "loving," a family man with a heart bigger than his collection of old cars. He was the beloved patriarch to his daughter Michelle R. (Billy E.) Nivens; his grandkids, Thomas Joey "TJ" Nivens, Megan Noble, Shane Moore, Devon Moore, Kiersten Nivens, and TJ Nivens; and his loyal canine companion, Lilly, who was by his side until the very end. His long time companion Paula Hix.   He was preceded in passing by his son Joey Allen Noble, granddaughter Mary-Catherine Gambrell, sister Linda Owens, and his parents, Tommy B. Noble and Margaret Simpson Noble. His siblings, Patsy Stewart, Author Noble, and Carolyn Crawford, will continue to share the stories of Thomas's shenanigans.

Thomas's legacy is also carried on by his son, Thomas Stephen Noble, who inherited not just his father's name but his knack for turning a wrench and a phrase with equal skill. They say you can't take it with you, but Thomas left behind a treasure trove of laughter, life lessons, and a few spare car parts just in case.

In a world that often takes itself too seriously, Thomas was a reminder that life is better when you're chuckling. He was as handy with a joke as he was with a wrench, and his ability to find humor in the everyday was a gift to all who knew him. Thomas's life was a masterclass in not sweating the small stuff—unless it was a tiny bolt that fell into the engine bay, of course.

So, let's crank up the oldies, cast a line into the sunset, and remember Thomas A. Noble, a man who taught us that the best way to face life's ups and downs is with a smile on your face and a punchline at the ready. He may have left the garage for the last time, but his laughter will echo in our hearts forever. Keep on cruising, Thomas; you've earned your place in the great car show in the sky.