Thomas "Tom" Cyrus passed away peacefully on Friday, March 21, 2014, with his family by his side.

Tom was born in Madres, Oregon on June 17, 1923 to Warren Dean and Nettie Pearl (Wilson) Cyrus.  Tom developed a strong interest in rock collecting and loved to use his rock tumbler to bring them to a shine.  He was also an avid gardener and loved to tinker in his shed.  Tom's true passions in life were God and his family.  Tom was a member of the Calvary Baptist Church since 1988.  He and his wife Edith served together on their Koinonia fellowship committee.

Tom met Edith Berkey in 1945 where their love quickly blossomed.  They were married on June 16, 1946 in Sheridan, Oregon.  Tom and Edith moved to their new home in Redmond, Oregon right after their honeymoon.

Tom started his life long career with diatomaceous earth at Great Lakes Carbon in Terrebonne, Oregon the year they married.  In 1961, Tom moved his family to Lompoc, California where he accepted a Lab Chemist position with Grefco.  While working full time, Tom continued his education by achieving an associate degree in Chemistry at Allan Hancock College.  Tom was recognized for his "contribution toward the concept, design and completion of the best diatomaceous earth processing plant in the whole world in Burney, California".  Tom retired from Grefco in 1987 after 41 years of loyal commitment to his career.

Tom is survived by his wife Edith of 67 years.  He is also survived by his son Vernon (Linda) Cyrus, his daughters Koreen (David) Donnelly and Teresa (Jay) Maddock.  Also surviving are his brother Raymond (Sharon) Cyrus and sister-in-law Joan Cyrus as well as eight grandchildren, three great grandchildren, three step grandchildren, ten step great grandchildren, one great-great step grandson and numerous nieces and nephews.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, brother Warren Cyrus, sister Hildegard Johnson, son Noel Cyrus and grandson, Kyle Maddock.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Calvary Baptist Church, 3355 Constellation Rd, Lompoc, CA 93436 or to a charity of your choice.

Memorial services will be held Saturday, April 5, 2014 at 10:00 am at Calvary Baptist Church with a reception to follow.