Thomas Ray Saltz

Thomas Ray Saltz, known affectionately as Tom, a shining example of the Lord's grace among us. Born on January 17th,1941 in Berwind, West Virginia and called to his eternal home in Teague, Texas on October 7th, 2024. His journey of 83 years on this earthly plane was one rich with faith, love, and service.

Born to Albert and Francise Saltz who, alongside his brothers Layman, Jimmy, and Gene, have all preceded him in joining our heavenly father. His beloved wife, Lenda Saltz, with whom he shared a lifetime of love, has also taken her place amongst our Lord. Tom's legacy continues through his children: Anthony Saltz, joined to Crickett; Lisa Macfarlane, wed with Wally; and Abigail Jerkins, in union with Mark. His grandchildren, Anthony the second, Christopher, Justin, Jacob, Amanda, and Nichole, along with eleven great-grandchildren, are the fruits of a life well-lived, each a testament to his enduring love and guidance. Tom is also survived by a host of sister in-laws, brother in-laws, nieces, and nephews, each graced by his presence in their lives.

Tom’s life was marked by a remarkable entrepreneurial journey graced by God’s providence. In the 1970s, he harnessed the wisdom granted to him by the Lord to extract silver from x-ray film, pioneering his own silver business. With the same determination and blessing of providence, Tom founded a prosperous construction company in the 1980s. Later, his entrepreneurial spirit shone bright as he moved into real estate, building homes and owning an apartment complex. In 2003, after decades of diligent work, Tom heeded the call to rest and entered a well-deserved retirement.

Brother Tom Saltz was firmly rooted in his love for the Lord. His daily commitment to scripture and worship was the compass that guided his life. As it is written, " But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." (Isaiah 40:31, KJV). Tom soared on the wings of his faith, and his unwavering devotion was a beacon to all who knew him.

Tom's heart was infused with an unrelenting optimism, his soul ablaze with passion, and his hands blessed with the handy touch of our creator. His approach was a testament to Proverbs 16:3 – "Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." Indeed, the Lord shone brightly upon his endeavors, and Tom reciprocated by living a life steeped in service to the Lord.

We do not say farewell but rather lift our joyful voices in gratitude for the time we were granted with Thomas Ray Saltz. For his life was an example of the promise found in Philippians 1:21 – “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." Tom's time on Earth was indeed Christ-like, and in his passing, he has gained the Kingdom of Heaven.

Let us then rejoice in the knowledge that Brother Tom now resides in the everlasting embrace of our Savior, leaving behind a world touched by his grace, his resolve, and his unwavering faith. Psalm 23 (AKJV) – “1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. 3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. 5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.”