Lonnie Dale “Tom” Scragg, 83, of Salt Rock, West Virginia, passed peacefully into the arms of his Savior on July 9, 2025. After a life spent reading about Heaven, testifying about it, teaching about it, and singing about it — now he’s been escorted to go see about it.
Born January 22, 1942 to Benjamin and Elsie Scragg, Lonnie graduated valedictorian from Guyan Valley High School at just 16 years old. He immediately moved to Huntington to attend Marshall University, where he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees, plus 45 additional hours of graduate study.
He devoted his life to education and service. He taught upper-level mathematics and algebra in Cabell County high schools before becoming an assistant principal and then principal at several area schools. He also taught at Marshall University as well. He later retired as the Food Service Coordinator for Cabell County Schools, after serving there for 44 years.
Music was one of Lonnie’s deepest joys. At 18, he began singing with the McComas Quartet — a calling that lasted until he was 81. Truth be told, he was chasing after their alto singer, Barbara McComas, who would soon become his bride. There was nothing he loved more than lifting his voice in harmony with those he loved most. He also faithfully served for over 40 years as an adult Sunday School teacher and as a deacon at Valley of Decision Church.
Lonnie was lovingly known as “Papaw” — an awesome grandfather who enjoyed hunting and fishing and was a proud member of the Mountaineer Sportsman Gun Club. He was also fondly called “Tom” by many lifelong friends and family.
He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Benjamin and Elsie Scragg; his infant daughter, Brenda Jean Scragg; and his brother, David Scragg.
Tom is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Barbara McComas Scragg ; his loving children, Christina Spears (Rob), Dale Scragg (Stephanie) and Tim Scragg (Amanda); his grandchildren, who were the joy of his heart, Alison Lassiter (Cody), Joel Spears, Aspen Scragg, Ava, Anna and Adalee Scragg; his brother and best friend, Johnny Scragg; and his sister, Bonita Scragg. He and Barb were excited to welcome their first great grandchild next January-on his birthday which he also shared with his youngest son, Tim. He also leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews; his “bonus daughter” Renae Wilkinson (Bobby) and Lonnie’s bonus grandsons, Ethan and Matthew; and a special neighbor-daughter, Maria Finley.
A celebration of Lonnie’s life will be held Sunday July 13th at Valley of Decision Church. Visitation will be 1-3 p.m. with funeral beginning at 3 p.m. Burial will follow at Franklin Cemetery, Branchland, WV. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Valley of Decision Church.
The lyrics from one of Lonnie’s favorite songs resounds in all of our hearts-
“When they lay me in the grave, don’t you weep for me. I’ll live again, over on the other side”.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” II Timothy 4:7 NKJV
Wallace Funeral Home, Barboursville, is assisting the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.timeformemory.com/wallace.
