Judith Aline Thomas

Judith Aline Thomas, age 85, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2025, in Plant City, Florida. Born on June 17, 1940, in Tampa, Florida, Judy lived a life marked by dedication to her family, her faith, and her community. Judy was the daughter of the late William and Vera Philippus. She grew up in Tampa and attended Oak Park Elementary School and Franklin Junior High School before graduating from Hillsborough High School as part of the Class of 1959. Her early years laid the foundation for a life filled with hard work and service. Throughout her career, Judy held various positions that reflected her strong work ethic and attention to detail. She worked at Super Test Amusement Park and University Pharmacy (Joe’s), served as a bookkeeper at Lenfesty Supply, and contributed to operations at Tampa Bay Steel. In 1982, she began what would become a two-decade-long career with the U.S. Postal Service, retiring in 2002 after 20 years of dedicated service.

Judy was a long-time, active member and leader at East Chelsea Baptist Church. Her commitment to her church family was unwavering, and she taught Sunday school, led the children’s department, volunteered regularly for Vacation Bible School (most recently in June of this year), and served on the church’s personnel committee. Her faith was not only a personal cornerstone, but also a guiding light in how she interacted with others. She was known for her generosity and warmth. Judy never met a stranger and was always ready to lend a helping hand. Her giving spirit touched countless lives, whether through acts of kindness or simply being present when someone needed support.

Judy had many passions that brought joy to her life. She was an excellent seamstress whose skillful hands created beautiful pieces over the years; she had a deep love for animals of all kinds; and she found true delight in shopping—an activity that brought her both excitement and relaxation. Above all else, Judy cherished her family. She was a devoted mother to Kevin Thomas and Trevor Thomas (wife Sawyer), and a proud grandmother to Alondra Zink (husband Nathan) and Claire Thomas. She shared close bonds with her siblings Pat Rosas, Bill Philippus, Alice Gardiner (husband Gene), and Marianne Lovelace (husband Richard). She also leaves behind countless nieces and nephews who were blessed by her love and guidance. Judy was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 53 years, James Earl Thomas.

Her memory will live on through those who knew and loved her—a testament to a life well-lived in faith, kindness, and unwavering devotion. May her legacy continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to share in her journey. A Celebration of Life will be held on July 31, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. (doors open at 4:30 p.m.) at East Chelsea Baptist Church, 7225 East Chelsea Street, Tampa, Florida. Those wishing to honor Judy with any floral arrangements are welcome to have deliveries sent to East Chelsea Baptist Church on the day of the service.