Richard was born on December 11, 1946 in Columbus, Georgia to the late Mary Elizebeth Shellgrove Thomas and Woodrow Wilson Carl Thomas. A lifelong resident of Columbus, Richard took great pride in his community and was known by all. Richard instilled the values of hard work and the importance of family to all who knew and especially loved him.
Richard married the love of his life, Angela Littrell Thomas, and together they raised five children. He never shied away to show everyone his hard work ethic and loving values. Richard also had a passion for antique classic cars, spending time with family and friends, and his canine companion. Richard was a contractor for over 50 years in the Columbus area.
He leaves his legacy behind to be cherished by his loving wife, Angela Littrell Thomas; his five children, Stephanie Bailey, Kimberly Thomas (Jean Occeus), Richard Earl Thomas, Jr. (Brittany), Michael Thomas, and Stacie Thomas Mailey (Scott); his thirteen adored grandchildren, Ashley Flanagan, Ladd Yeomans, Kenny Hedden, Richard Thomas, III, Kyle Hedden, Trenton Cowman, Savannah Thomas, Andrew Thomas, Avery Thomas, Alayna Mailey, Everly Mailey, Caroline Thomas, and River Thomas; three great grandchildren, Cal Yeomans, Rowan Cowman, Delialah Cowman; his sister in law, Hazel Thomas; his brother, Kenny Thomas (Jackie); and numerous other family members and friends.
Richard is preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Woodrow Thomas and by his brothers, Larry Thomas and Donald Thomas.
A Service to Celebrate Richard’s Life will be held on Sunday, March 23, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, Fisher Chapel, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia 31907. Family will visit with friends in the Mill Room following the service. Burial will be on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 in Parkhill Cemetery, 4161 Macon Rd, Columbus, Georgia 31907.
