Mr. Thomas "Tom" Evan Leiby, 85, of Hayesville, NC, formerly of

Morelane, GA, passed away Saturday, September 13, 2025, peacefully in his home. He was born April 2, 1940, in West Reading, PA, to the late Guy and Evelyn Leiby.

            In addition to his parents, Tom was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia "Micki" Michelle Leiby, and sisters Nancy Bell and Mary Bannon.

            Tom grew up in Red Hill, PA, and graduated from Upper Perkiomen High School in 1958 where he excelled in several sports as well as the performing arts. He also served on the student council and was elected senior class president.

            Tom went on to attend Susquehanna University and then joined the Marines to serve as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam. He was awarded the Purple Heart, the Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze stars, and was awarded the Air Medal 21 times for his extensive combat flying. Tom left the Marines as a Major, to become a captain for Eastern Airlines. He is probably known best locally for being "The Hud Man" during his long career with Lindsey's Realtors in downtown Newnan.

            After his retirement and the passing of his wife, Micki, Tom enjoyed spending time in his garden, fishing with friends and grandkids, and of course, his weekly poker games. Family was very important to Tom, and nothing made him prouder than watching them all grow and excel.

            Tom is survived by his sister, Susanne Krause (Bill); daughters Tamara (Tammy) Ann McFadden (David), Laurie Michelle Reynolds (Scott), Elizabeth (Paige) Leiby and fiancé Asael Cruz; grandchildren Gregory Valliere, Jonathan Valliere, Courtney Poppinga (JP), Shelly McFadden, Sidney Reynolds Clark (Ronnie), Skye Reynolds and fiancé Chris Garcia; great-grandchildren Jeffrey Poppinga and Tucker Poppinga.

            Tom was honored on Sunday, September 21, 2025, with a viewing from 2-4 p.m. at McKoon Funeral Home, 38 Jackson St., Newnan.  A service followed immediately with Kevin Couch officiating.

            Condolences can be expressed online at www.mckoon.com.

            McKoon Funeral Home & Crematory (770) 253-4580.