William R. Thomas

William Raymond Thomas, loving Christian husband, father, and grandfather, joined his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, Oct. 12, at the age of 87 in Snellville, Ga. Bill is survived by Margaret, his wife of 69 years, and three of their four children, Ann Turnure, Michael Thomas, and Rick Thomas and their families. He was preceded by their son, William Raymond Thomas Jr. In addition to his wife and children, Bill is survived by six wonderful grandchildren, and eight beautiful great- grandchildren. Bill also is survived by his brother, Frank Thomas and his family of Kershaw, S.C. Bill was born in August of 1924 to Carrie and Raymond Thomas in Mullins, S.C. Bill retired after a 20-year career with the U.S. Navy, which allowed him to travel around the world, visiting such foreign countries as Brazil, Cuba, Belize, Italy, and Puerto Rico. He received numerous promotions throughout his naval career, including being handpicked for President Eisenhower's N.A.T.O. Headquarters in Naples, Italy where he reported directly to General Stokes and later to Admiral Cotton Ring. Bill and his family eventually settled in Virginia Beach in 1958, and four years later he retired as a chief warrant officer. Bill had a passion for automobiles, and after retiring from the Navy, joined a local car dealership, Perry Buick, rising to General Manager, where he remained for more than 30 years. In his later years, Bill worked with Margaret in their own Hallmark Cards, florist, and gift store, Thomas House Limited, which they operated for more than 20 years. Bill was a pivotal leader for 50 years at Suburban Christian Church where he served as a founder, deacon, board member, and chairman. Bill remained active throughout his community as well, including serving various official roles with the Lions Club organization. In addition, Bill was an avid gardener, who along with his wife, could be seen on most weekends enhancing their award winning home landscape. Funeral services will be held Saturday, Oct. 15, at the Eternal Hills Funeral Home, 3594 Stone Mount Hwy, Snellville, GA 30039. Gifts of flowers will be redistributed to the Septer/Parkwood Nursing Center where Margaret is still a resident.