Hollis Eugene Thomas

Hollis (Gene) Eugene Thomas, age 73, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 5 2014, at his home in Matthews, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on Jan. 6, 1941, in Oakboro, and grew up in Albemarle, spending most of his adult life in Charlotte. He was preceded in death by his parents Hubert Thomas and Ruby Baucom Thomas. He is survived by his beloved wife for 48 years, Margaret Lou Carter Thomas; son Christopher Eugene Thomas, wife Amy Devlin Thomas, granddaughters Jessica Lynn and Jenna Christine; son Scott Carter Thomas of the home; sister Audrey Helms (husband Hal), nephew Tony Helms (wife Annette), nephew Doug Helms (wife Cindy); sister Sue Ferguson (husband Gene), niece Rhonda Libby, nephew Mark Ferguson (wife Michelle); nephew-in-law Mark Watson (wife Lynn), niece-in-law Sherry Miller; many grand nephews and nieces. Gene joined the Army National Guard in 1958 serving six months active duty and remained in the Reserves until Jan. 8, 1966. He began his work experience with Coca Cola Bottling Co in 1963. He began his Air Conditioning and Refrigeration career with Commercial Refrigeration, then Bankhead Refrigeration, until he opened his own business Tarheel Refrigeration Inc. and Sunbelt Refrigeration, closing in 2008 due to declining health. He loved the hard work of owning his own business, where he earned the nickname "Mr. Fix It", watching his granddaughters grow, as well as working in his yard, taking care of cars, traveling, eating out and caring for his dog, Sugar Bear. He attended Mount Harmony Baptist Church and was a member of Hickory Grove Baptist Church. To celebrate his life, a funeral service will be held at McEwen Mint Hill Monday, Feb. 10 at 3:00 p.m. Visitation will be two hours before. Graveside services will be at Sharon Memorial Park following the service. Funeral arrangements by McEwen Mint Hill. More information at 704-545-4864. We appreciate the support and compassionate care of Hospice, Palliative Care Charlotte Region, 1420 E. 7th Street, Charlotte, NC. Especially caregivers Cassandra and Stacy Ballard. Family and friends are invited to the home after the funeral service.