Thomas "Tommy" Whitford Gaskins, Jr.

Thomas Whitford Gaskins, Jr., 81, of Reelsboro, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at home surrounded by his family.

Tommy was a devoted Christian whose life was a testimony of faith, service, and love for others. He faithfully attended Reelsboro Pentecostal Holiness Church beginning in 1969 and served in many roles throughout the years. He was known as a faithful reader of God’s Word, spending countless hours studying his Bible.

One of his greatest ministries was his work with the Sunday School Ministry at Grantsbrook Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. To those who attended, Tommy was known simply as “Preacher,” and for them, that gathering was their church.

Raised on a farm, Tommy learned the values of hard work early in life. He later served his country honorably in the U.S. Army, completing two overseas tours in Korea and Okinawa. After his military service, he worked 40 years as a barber beginning at the Marine Corps Exchange Barbershop and opened and owned Tommy’s Backyard Barbershop, a place where he not only cut hair but ministered to hearts. In later years, he enjoyed raising a garden and spending time outdoors.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Whitford and Carthine Gaskins; sisters, Mary Phillips and Shirley Richardson; baby brother, Jimmy Winfield Gaskins; and precious granddaughter, Makenna Hope Littleton.

Tommy leaves behind to cherish his memory his beloved wife of 57 years, Linda Goodwin Gaskins; daughters, Lori Andrews (Joe) and Jennifer Littleton (Choy); brother, Ray Gaskins, Sr. (Nelda); five grandchildren, Taylor Andrews Johnson (Colt), Morgan Andrews Meadows (Jesse), Jonah Thomas Andrews (Kathryn Outlaw), Murphy Littleton, and Mia Littleton; great-grandchildren, Oaklyn, Brody, Lane, and Claire; along with many loving nieces, nephews, and a host of cherished friends.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Reelsboro Pentecostal Holiness Church. Interment will follow immediately in Sandhill Cemetery.

A visitation will be held Monday, January 19th, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the church.

Flowers are appreciated, or memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Pamlico, PO Box 6, Bayboro, NC 28515.

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” – 2 Timothy 4:7-8 KJV