It is with most sincere sympathy that we formally announce the passing of, Mr. Willie Thomas.  Mr. Thomas passed on Sunday, October 15,2017 at Archbold Medical Center.

THE OBITUARY

Willie was born on November 12, 1927 in Thomasville, GA to the late Willie Thompson, Sr. and Hattie Gilley Thompson.  He attended the public schools in Grady County, GA.  Willie enlisted in the US Army in 1945 and was stationed at various US and oversea Military Posts.  In 1957, Willie married the former Betty Jo Vandergriff and the two shared their lives together until her death in December 2009.

   Willie retired from the US Army in 1968 after serving his country for 23 years.  Following his retirement from the US Army, he was employed by the US General Services Administration in Washington, DC and retired in 1990 with 21 years of service to the Federal Government.  Throughout his career he received numerous medals, awards and accommodations for his military and government service.

Willie, affectionately referred to as “Buddy” was a car enthusiast and always had the “best Looking car” in town.  He was an avid gardener, enjoyed yard work and exercising at the gym.  If anyone was looking for him, they checked “Burger King” first.  

He leaves to morn his loss, one daughter, Gwendolyn V. Willis of Cairo, GA, one son, Shelton (Phillis) of Upper Marlboro, MD: one Grandson, Christopher Gerald Willis, Midlothian, VA.; Three brothers, J.L. Thompson, Thomasville, GA, Austell Thompson, Newark NJ, and James Thompson, Pompano Beach, FL; one sister, Edna Jones, Thomasville, GA; two brothers-in-law, Hebert (Lillie Ruth) Vandergriff, Cairo, GA, Leonard  Bernard (Teresa) Vandergriff, Washington, DC. Two sisters-in-law, Deborah Thomas, Cairo, GA, Mable (Bobby)Donald both of Cairo, GA.; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

 Service Information