Kate Hamilton Thomas, 78, of Madison Heights, Virginia, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at her residence, with her son and sister by her side, following a lengthy illness. She was the beloved wife of the late Earl Thornton Thomas.
Born in Nelson County on March 24, 1946, she was the daughter of the late Emmitt Hamilton and Onie Tyler Hamilton. In addition to her husband and parents, Kate was preceded in death by one son, Donald Wayne Thomas; two sisters, Wanda Faye Hamilton and Sharon Hamilton Barricks; three brothers, Greg A. Hamilton, Emmitt D. Hamilton, and Larry W. Hamilton; and a special niece, Dana Williams.
She is survived by her loving son, Larry Wayne Thomas; one brother, Roger D. Hamilton (Susanna); two sisters, Violet Brumfield and Della Mae Burgess; three grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other extended family.
Kate devoted her career to caring for others in the field of nursing, working in several nursing facilities before retiring after 25 years of service at the Central Virginia Training Center. Her co-workers called her “Sarge” because of her strict adherence to quality patient care.
Known for her nurturing spirit, she was the matriarch of her family, the glue that held everyone together, and a woman with an incredibly giving heart. She especially cherished her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, often expressing her only regret as not being able to spend more time with them.
Kate enjoyed traveling, frequently visiting family in California and throughout Virginia. However, in recent years, her health limited her ability to continue those travels. Over the last 20 months of her life, her son, Larry Wayne, served as her primary caregiver. Together, her steadfast will and Larry’s loving devotion ensured she had the best possible care.
A service celebrating Kate's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at Whitten Monelison Chapel, with the Rev. Anthony Johnson officiating. Interment will follow at Fort Hill Memorial Park.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.
Friends are welcome to pay their respects on Friday, November 22, 2024 between the hours of 9:00 am & 5:00 pm at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Amherst County Humane Society, 318 Shelter Ln., Amherst, VA 24521, www.amherstanimalshelter.org
Kate will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
