Thomas Binns

Thomas Lee Binns, 83, of Chillicothe Ohio died January 8, 2016, at home peacefully, with his family by his side. Tom was born in Athens, OH in 1932, and graduated from Chillicothe High School in 1950. He studied at The Ohio State University and graduated from Wilmington College with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1960. From the very young age of four, Tom knew that all he ever wanted to do was to fly airplanes. This passion led him to join The United States Navy, where he achieved the rank of Lieutenant, and Patrol Plane Commander, for the Tactical Air Control Squadron SIX. He was stationed at Whiting Field in Milton, FL, near Pensacola. After being honorably discharged from the Navy, Tom went on to fly Co-Pilot for Trans World Airlines in 1966. He was promoted to Captain on May 11, 1979, a rank he proudly held until his retirement from TWA in 1992. He had the privilege of flying the Lockheed L10-11, the 727-stretch and the 707, among other aircraft. His career enabled him to see the world, and as an avid runner, he spent many layovers exploring cities on foot. Tom was a kind gentleman who enjoyed being around people. Anyone who encountered Tom almost certainly encountered his sense of humor. He loved a good joke, and those who spent time with him always found themselves laughing with Tom. He was striking, at 6 feet, 6 and 1/2 inches tall. With his stature and personality combined, he filled almost any room with a delightful presence. Tom was an avid, lifelong fan of Ohio State Football and of The Ohio State Marching Band. He was also a great lover of jazz music and World War II military history. Thomas Lee Binns was the only child of Dwight and Naomi Binns, who preceded Tom in death. He is survived by his wife Kay Shoemaker Binns of Chillicothe, OH; along with his step-sons Max and Morgan Stafford. Tom is also survived by four children he had during his first marriage to Margaret Rader Binns: Douglas Binns of Seoul, Korea; Steven Binns of Chillicothe; Christy Binns Marinaro of Albuquerque, NM; and Samantha Binns Malinowski of White Lake, MI; four grandchildren: Lillianna Stafford, Jalen Marinaro, and Faith and Grant Malinowski. After cremation, Tom's ashes will be spread in a place that was meaningful to him. A "Celebration of Life" will be held Sunday, January 31st, from 1-4pm at the Cross Keys Tavern, 19 E. Main St., Chillicothe. Please join the family in remembering Tom, and celebrating his life with laughter, stories and of course, a good joke!
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