Thomas Edward Bodley

Thomas Bodley, age 88, of Porterville, California entered eternal rest at home on Sunday December 15th, 2024. He was surrounded in the love of his family as he joined loved ones who have gone before him. Thomas was born the eldest son of four children to Art and Nordica (Daley) Bodley on October 6, 1936 in Porterville.

Thomas graduated from Porterville High School in 1954 and went on to serve with the U.S. Air Force from 1954-1963. After military service, his working years came with long days and long hours, which he embraced perfectly. Thomas worked as a ranch hand from 1963-1965, and at that time he met and married Velda Weisenberger and together they had two children that joined Velda's older children to create a blended family. His diverse work experience also included some time spent working as a Psychiatric Technician at the state hospital. Later, he took a position at the U.S. Post Office in 1966, which was a position he was very proud to hold. This followed his passion for serving our country in one way or another. During this time, Thomas enrolled as a full-time student at Porterville College where he received his A.A, degree in Business Administration. He took transferable classes so he could attend a 4-year college. After graduation from Porterville College, he enrolled in California State University, Bakersfield and received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration. He retired from the U.S. Postal Service after 25 years in 1990 to care for his beloved wife.

Thomas was a member of the California State Honor Society. He received the Bank of America award in business, the WM Pitt Bartlett award, the Alpha Rho Scholastic award, and he became a lifetime member of the Alpha Gamma Sigma State Scholastic Society. Thomas was a part of many organizations over the years and was very involved in the community. Some highlights of his involvement include the American Legion, Porterville Horseman's Association, Porterville Canterbelle Association, and he served as a Rockford 4-H Club Leader.

Thomas is preceded in death by his wife Velda Bodley, his parents Art and Nordica, and brothers Bob and Jim, a son Benny Beaty and a daughter Karen York. Thomas is survived by his sister Norma Doyel of Visalia, a daughter Victoria Bodley and two sons Edward Bodley and Dean Kelly, all of Porterville. Thomas also has 10 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great grandchildren.

Thomas donated to a lot of charities over the years. He was also an avid supporter of his church, First Congregational Church in Porterville, as well as The Wounded Warriors Project. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, you may consider a donation to the church or to The Wounded Warriors Project, website is www.wwfs.org <http://www.wwfs.org>.

A Viewing will be held at Myers Chapel in Porterville, California on Friday, December 27, 2024 from 4:00PM to 7:00PM. A Graveside service will be held at Vandalia Cemetery in Porterville, California on Saturday, December 28, 2024 at 10:00 AM. At the service, information will be provided for an after-service gathering to embrace the family in fellowship and share memories of Tom.

To share a memory, or express condolences to the family, please visit the obituaries section of our website at www.myersfuneral.com/obituaries <http://www.myersfuneral.com/obituaries>. Myers Funeral Service & Crematory in Porterville is in charge of arrangements