Thomas “Tom” Walter Lias Obituary
Thomas “Tom” Walter Lias, former CEO of Gorman’s Home Furnishings & Interior Design, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 15, 2024, in Winter Garden, Florida. A longtime resident of Troy, Michigan, and a more than 50-year furniture industry veteran, Tom was a dedicated leader and family man, who left an indelible mark on his professional and personal communities. He was 77 years old.
Born and raised in Youngstown, Ohio and a graduate of Chaney High School, Tom honorably served his country in the United States Army as a drill sergeant and then attended Youngstown State and the School of Design at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh.
Joining Gorman’s in 1983 and moving through the company ranks, he was named company president in 1996 and CEO in 2017. Under his leadership, he was instrumental in Gorman’s move to its “100 brands” strategy, helping the furniture and design retailer expand its brands to include premier lines, such as Hooker Furniture, Lexington Home Brands and Stickley.
Tom was a mentor to many in the industry and in 2017 was recognized with Furniture Today’s Champion of the Industry Award. The award recognized his career commitment to the furniture industry, his community and his servant leadership ideals. He retired from Gorman’s in June 2023.
Prior to joining Gorman’s, he co-owned and served as president of La-Z-Boy stores in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. He also held numerous roles, including sales rep, general manager and vice president, for several Michigan Ethan Allen locations, and served as Michigan and Ohio marketing manager for the company.
Tom’s commitment to community service was exemplified by his long-standing involvement with The Arc of Oakland County, where he worked tirelessly to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. His compassionate efforts made a significant impact on many lives, reflecting his deep-seated belief in giving back to the community.
In 2022, The Detroit News named him a Michiganian of the Year for his significant contributions to the nonprofit community. He served on The Arc of Oakland County board of directors, including as president, for more than 12 years and was also instrumental in the rebranding of The Arc’s Forever Plan, which supports people with intellectual or developmental disabilities after their parents or guardians can no longer care for them.
Away from his professional endeavors, Tom was a passionate golfer and bowler, clinching his first perfect 300 game at the age of 18 years old.
Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Christine “Chris” and his cherished son David; brother Charles (Barb) Lias of Boardman, OH, Uncle Dock (Barb) Lias of Leesburg, Fla., and many much-loved brothers-in-law and sisters-in-laws and nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Charles Lias and Annette Hadley Lias.
He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, friend, visionary leader, and compassionate advocate.
A celebration of Tom’s life will be announced at a future date. Contributions may be made to The Arc of Oakland County ( or the National Fragile X Foundation ( in Tom’s memory.
Posted online on June 18, 2024
Published in The Detroit News, Detroit Free Press
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