Thomas "Tommie" Rueben Vandiver

Thomas “Tommie” Rueben Vandiver, 80, of Stanley passed away peacefully January 13, 2019 at his residence surrounded by his loving family.  He was born on October 22, 1938 to the late James and Lillian Fesperman Vandiver Sr.  He is also preceded in death by brothers, Jimmie and Milton “Van” Vandiver.  Tommie was well known in the racing industry beginning his career on dirt tracks around North and South Carolina alongside his brother Jimmie in the 1950's.  He later became crew chief for NASCAR drivers, his brother, Jimmie Vandiver, Buddy Baker, and Freddie Smith.  He was a man of many talents and was known for helping many in the racing industry.

Survivors include his loving wife of 31 years, Teresa Westbrook Vandiver; children, Thomas "Adam" Vandiver (Lyndsay), Tommy Culpepper (Andrea), and Jeff Vandiver; stepchildren, Jamie Campbell (Coley), Jimmy Springs (Rachel), and Jennifer Springs; sister, Lillian Hoopaugh; 7 grandchildren, David, Mark, Angie, Caleb, Reagan, Morgan, and Grayson; and 3 great grandchildren, Nora, Vandiver "Van", and Foster.

A Funeral Service to celebrate Tommie’s life will be held Friday, January 18, at 1:00 p.m. at Alexis Baptist Church, 118 Alexis Church Rd., Alexis, NC with Rev. Ritchie Doss officiating.  Visitation will be held prior to service from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.  Interment will follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery.