Lawrence Gaines Thomas

September 15, 1944 – August 23, 2025

Lawrence Gaines Thomas, 80, of Schuyler, VA, earned his wings on August 23, 2025.

He was born September 15, 1944, to the late Gaines Monroe Thomas and Mary Virginia Hall. Lawrence was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Irving Thomas (De De); three sisters, Ginger, Janice, and Brenda; his father-in-law, Charlie Morris; his mother-in-law, Helen Morris; in-laws Charlie and Janet Litton; brother-in-law, Mikey Davis; grandson, Mason Thomas; nephew, Charles E. Morris Jr. (Chuck); and his cousin Tony, who was more like a brother and his guitar-picking partner. Tony and Lawrence shared countless good times, and Tony always tried to fix Lawrence’s hair to look like Elvis.

Lawrence is survived by the love of his life and wife of 50 years, Pamela D. Thomas; four children, Randolph, Scott (Tracey), Andy and his fiancée Tabby (who Lawrence already considered a daughter-in-law), and Shawn. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren seven in total, including his special grandson A.J. Thomas, with whom he shared an especially close bond, and many more he dearly loved. Also survived by the remaining of his 15 siblings, Brothers - Charles, Danny, Wade, Jerry, Larry and Calvin then sisters- Dale, Deborah, Golores, Myrtle, and Ruby. A special note goes to Kyle and Meagan, whom he cherished and thought of as his own children.

Lawrence retired from the City of Charlottesville Water Department. A hardworking man, he continued to work after retirement and would give you the shirt off his back. Lawrence always helped any and everybody and never knew a stranger. He enjoyed long drives with Pamela—never knowing where they would end up—hunting, fishing, playing guitar, listening to good ole country music, and enjoying a bottle of bourbon.

Known as a sharp-dressed man, Lawrence always wore his cowboy boots and cowboy hat. A handsome cowboy with an old soul and a heart of gold, he will never be forgotten.

The family extends a very special thanks to all who came to help search for Lawrence.

A Celebration of Life for Lawrence will be held at a later date for family and friends.