Lloyd Ernest Thomas

Sunrise: November 18, 1928 Sunset: December 16, 2023

“His master said to him, Well done, you upright and faithful servant! You have been faithful and trustworthy over a little; I will put you in charge of much. Enter into and share the joy which your master enjoys” -Matthew 25: 21

Affectionally known as “Brother Lloyd”, Lloyd Ernest Thomas was born on November 18, 1928 to Simon Thomas and Elize Macauley in Charlotte County. Lloyd was the only child birthed to the couple.

Lloyd attended Baker Academy in Punta Gorda and Dunbar High School in Ft. Myers. Lloyd withdrew from high school in the 11th grade to serve in the military. Lloyd served in the army for 17 months receiving a World War II Victory Medal.

After being discharged from the army, Lloyd worked in various agricultural jobs and jobs in the fishing industry to make ends meet. He found a permanent career as a cement truck driver with Florida Minor. Lloyd loved this job and was proud of the fact that his company was instrumental in building many of the early homes of the Deep Creek Community.

Lloyd was the personification of the saying, “age is just a number.” While in his late 60’s, Lloyd accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal Savior under the leadership of the late Pastor Isaac Thomas Jr. Lloyd immediately volunteered in the works of the church by faithfully serving in the Usher, Laymen and Pastor Aide Ministries at St. Mary Baptist Church. He served as treasurer in these ministries because he could be trusted to keep accurate records of dues and fundraising monies. Lloyd also didn’t mind reminding members when they fell behind in their dues 😊

Lloyd’s most passionate service was his Cans for Christ Ministry. Lloyd wanted to ensure that the youth of St. Mary had funds to attend youth conventions and had gifts for Christmas so each day Lloyd embarked on a scavenger hunt for aluminum cans all around the city. At 95 years of age, Lloyd walked the blocks with his cane in one hand and a bag in the other to retrieve aluminum cans for recycling. His passion ignited others to join in his mission by collecting aluminum cans for him to pick up or they would drop off aluminum cans to his home.

Lloyd’s unwavering commitment to God’s Kingdom will be remembered and cherished by all of those who were blessed to have known him.

Lloyd leaves to cherish his memory, his son Michael Hudson (Nikki); granddaughter and devoted caretaker, Sophie Doby and a host of cousins.

A visitation for Lloyd will be held Saturday, December 23, 2023 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at St Mary Baptist Church, 605 Mary St, Punta Gorda, FL 33950. A funeral service will occur Saturday, December 23, 2023 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at St. Mary Baptist Church, 605 Mary St., Punta Gorda, FL 33950. A committal service with military honors will occur Saturday, December 23, 2023 from 4:00 PM to 4:30 PM at Lt. Carl Bailey Cemetery, 1025 Scott Ave, Punta Gorda, FL 33950.