Earl Thornton Thomas, 82, of Madison Heights, passed away Wednesday, February 20, 2019 at his residence surrounded by family following a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Kate Hamilton Thomas.
Born in Lynchburg, December 23, 1936 he was the son of the late Lloyd Ogden Thomas and Hazel Dalton Thomas. He retired from the Lynchburg Foundry after 30 years of service and later retired from the Central Virginia Training Center after 30 years of service. Prior to his illness, he enjoyed attending Providence Bible Church and meeting his friends at Hardee’s. He was a loving husband and father and enjoyed spending time with his family.
Two sons, Earl Thomas, Jr. and Donald Wayne Thomas; two brothers, Cliff Thomas and Dave Thomas and one sister, Betty Jean Layne preceded him in death.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Judy Thomas of Amherst and Betty Mae Dickerson of Madison Heights; one son, Larry Wayne Thomas of Madison Heights; one sister, Joyce Burley of Amherst; seven grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.
A service will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 23, 2019 in the Fort Hill Memorial Park Mausoleum chapel with the Rev. Kirk Farmer officiating.
The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, February 22, 2019 at Whitten Monelison Chapel.
Those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider the Amherst Humane Society, 318 Shelter Ln., Amherst, VA 24572.
