On June 22, 2020, Willie Thomas transitioned peacefully from his earthly home and began the journey to his eternal home.
Born November 6, 1926, he lived through ninety-three years of challenges, triumphs and joys. Not only did he witness historical times and events, but in his own quiet, persistent, and determined spirit, he left a proud legacy for his children and grandchildren.
Willie Thomas was one of two sons and three daughters born to the union of Willie Thomas and Susie Bailey. He lived primarily in the Tidewater, Virginia area. There he met Willie Mae Lassiter. They married on June 26, 1954. The union produced one daughter, Beverly Diana, and five sons, Richard Edward (deceased), Albert Philip, Charles Edward (Esther), James Bruce (Myong Ja), and Wayne Anthony (Angelina).
He had a military career in the US Army that spanned over thirty years. Beginning his active duty career toward the end of World War II, he served several tours in Vietnam and Korea, as well as Germany. His last duty station was in Germany where he retired having achieved the rank of Command Sargent Major. He remained in Germany where he studied and was employed with the University of Maryland, European Division for another twenty years. He returned to the United States in 2000 and settled in San Antonio, Texas.
He maintained an active exercise and religious daily devotional schedule. He enjoyed watching sports on television, playing cards, and encouraging his family; especially the younger members, to pursue educational goals. Always mindful of his own life as a child, he maintained regular support of numerous children’s charities and organizations.
He was affectionally known as “Willie Boy” to his family and “Tee” to his friends and colleagues. In his residence at Charlotte Hall, he projected a dignified and knowledgeable persona. A posture that earned him his most recent nickname. He came to be known as “Poppa” by the staff who cared for him.
His wife of forty-six years preceded him in death in 2000. In addition to his five remaining children, he leaves to grieve his passing eleven grandchildren; Lesley Washington (Melvin), Richard thomas Jr., Coryell Thomas, Wayne Thomas, Jr., Antoine Thomas, Dwayne Thomas, Chanelle Anthony (Mack), Kiana Thomas, Charles Thomas, Jr., Cecelia Lambert (Robert), and Linda Kagner (Arcady); eight great-grandchildren; Sydney Washington, DeShaun Thomas, Zion Thomas, Aalyiah Thomas, Anias Anthony, Gabriel Anthony, “Sunshine” Lambert and Alex Ferraro. A host of nieces, nephews, and friends also mourn his passing.
A service for Willie will be held in the Chapel at the Maryland Veterans Home Cemetery, Cheltenham, Maryland on Wednesday, July 29, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. A graveside service with full military honors will be held immediately after.
The current pandemic environment demands that we forego the traditional repast gathering. Though we are sad that we cannot share that time with you, we want each of you to know how grateful we are for your prayers, visits, comforting words and supportive acts. Even in this time of distancing, we felt connected and surround by love.
Condolences to the family may be made at www.brinsfieldfuneral.com
All arrangements have been made at Brinsfield Funeral Home & Crematory, P.A., Charlotte Hall, Maryland.
