Orin Thomas "Tom" Vines, 81, of Greensboro, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2026, at Moses Cone Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Born on February 4, 1945, in Hinton, West Virginia, to James Clyde Vines and Callie Marie Shepard Vines, Tom spent his early years in Hinton and Summersville WV before making his home in Greensboro for the past forty years.

Tom graduated from Hinton High School in 1963 and attended Concord College. He began his career with Celanese Corporation in Covington, Virginia, and spent more than 20 years managing Sears Catalog Stores. Following his Sears career, he worked in the insurance industry until his retirement in 2006.

Tom was a member of Carolina Estates Chapel and a musician in their worship band. Over the last year he renewed his commitment to his Christian faith and accepted the Lord as his Savior, bringing him peace and comfort. The family extends heartfelt thanks to Pastor Ira Godwin for his guidance, friendship, and support during Tom's spiritual journey.

Tom was known for his gregarious nature and magnetic personality. With his outrageous jokes and contagious laugh, he could make anyone smile. He was rough around the edges, but those who met him quickly became aware of just how big his heart was. He possessed a strong work ethic, a generous spirit, and a genuine appreciation for life's simple pleasures. Whether spending time with family, sharing stories with friends, or lending a helping hand to someone in need, Tom touched the lives of many through his humility, compassion, and steady presence. Tom's one true joy in life was his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom he absolutely adored and often said were the greatest blessings of his life. Nothing brought him greater happiness than watching them grow, celebrating their accomplishments, and sharing in the special moments of their lives. He found immense pride in their achievements and treasured every opportunity to spend time with them.

Above all, Tom cherished his family. At the time of his death, he was survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Rebecca Sue Ellison Vines; his daughters, Christy Vines Bassett and Andrea Vines Frame; his son-in-law, Bryan Bassett; his grandchildren, Zack Frame, Kayla Ervin McKenzie, and Alyssa Ervin Marsh; his great-grandchildren, Ella Kate Marsh, Riley Marsh, and Everly Frame; his brother, Ralph Vines; his sisters, Pam Vines, Belinda Lazor, and Terri Karpenko; his brother-in-law, Gary Ellison; and his sister-in-laws, Cherie Ellison Frazee and Margie Vines. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Richard Antonio Vines and Eddie Vines.

Tom and Becky shared a remarkable marriage built on love, faith, commitment, and devotion. Their partnership was an example to all who knew them, and together they created a family rooted in love and enduring values. Tom's legacy lives on through his family and the many lives he touched throughout his journey. He will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever loved.

The family finds comfort in knowing that Tom is now at peace in the presence of his Lord and Savior, reunited with loved ones who have gone before him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Tom's honor to Carolina Estates Chapel. Checks should be made payable to Pastor Ira Godwin and mailed to:

Pastor Ira Godwin Unit 123 4434 Old Battleground Road Greensboro, NC 27410

Family and friends are invited to attend a joint celebration of life honoring both Tom and Becky on Saturday, October 17, 2026 at 1:00 pm at Restwood Memorial Gardens. Those wishing to attend are asked to gather at Pivont Funeral Home at 12:30 pm to process to the cemetery for the service.