Smith Funeral Home of Florence, LLC. | Florence, SC

Obituary For James Thomas

The Governor of South Carolina advises to limit public gatherings to 50 guests or less to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Smith Funeral Home of Florence, LLC carefully considered this recommendation and ask that additional guest please participate via live-streaming if it is authorized by the family.

James Thomas, affectionately known as “Bubbie” and “Sam” by his family and friends, was born on November 2, 1949, and entered into eternal rest on May 13, 2020 at McLeod Regional Medical Center. Bubbie was preceded in death by his beloved parents James Edward and Queen Brockington Thomas; son, Mario T. Thomas; brothers, Louie, Sumter (Sonny Boy), Joshua and Edward Lee; sisters Queenie T. Street, Miriam T. Downs, and Mary Lillie T. Pipkins.

Left to embrace and continue Sam’s legacy are the love of his life- his loyal and devoted wife, Earnestine Sellers Thomas; sons, Roderick (Stacia) Sellers, Hilton Head, South Carolina, Edgar L. Thomas, Columbia, South Carolina, and daughter, Shonda E. Thomas, Florence, South Carolina; grandchildren, Charles “C.J.” Pickett, Ashlee (Patrick) Hines, Zahara Sellers and Zachariah Sellers; godson Thomas L. Pipkins and special son, Elder Alexis D. Pipkins, Sr.(LaDonna); sisters, Vivian A. Thomas Minor, Dr. Idella Glenn (Michael), and Eugenia Sexton; brothers-in-law, Harry Sellers and Ronnie Sellers (Bessie); sisters-in-law, Annette D. Thomas, Mary Elizabeth Brooks (George), and Sandra Sellers; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

A private Celebration of Life for James Thomas will be conducted at 12 Noon, Monday, May 18, 2020, at the J. O. & Annette Smith Memorial Chapel, 307 S. Johns Street, Florence, SC. Reverend Kippie C. Brown, Pastor, Officiating. Immediately following the Celebration of Life, there will be a processional to the private entombment at the Florence Memorial & Mausoleum, directed by Smith Funeral Home of Florence.

Since the Governor of South Carolina has authorized limited public gatherings to 50 guests or less to prevent the spread of COVID-19, Smith Funeral Home of Florence, LLC has carefully considered this recommendation and ask that additional guests participate via live-streaming or at

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ZOOM: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83151660741?pwd=ODVLUTc2U0FtVmdrRzNVWTE3ai9jdz09

The family has carefully considered a viewing at the funeral home from 11:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M., and a drive-by visitation at the residence, 2229 Waverly Woods Drive, Florence, SC, on Sunday evening, May 17, 2020, from 5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.

Please keep the family of James Thomas in your thoughts and prayers.

Guest Book

So sorry for your loss. Being strong at a time like this requires a firm belief in the Almighty God. On behalf of our Family to yours, May God Bless Yours. With Deepest Sympathy, Joyce and Thurman Thompson & Family.

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Shonda, I was very sadden by the News of your Father passing. He was one of my brothers classmates. If there is anything I can do for you and the family please inform me,I"m only ca call away! Your Friend & Co-worker,Mary S. James

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May God continue to bless you and give you strength to walk road. He be near during this difficult time. I remember Sam at ABB where we worked. We called "Big Sam" he was a true soldier. Stine renember the strength he had as walk this journey. God loves you. Roy Lee Singletary his ABB family.

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Sorry for your lost brunson gibbs

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To our family in Florence,SC.As another one our family members has took his leap of faith to be with our Heavenly Father,we also have sorrow that you will never know. Distance,the unknown enemy that has attacked our country ,makes places we want to be ,or go impossible. But as our absence is there our presence and the love of our almighty God is lingering in our hearts. We want you to know that when I woke up this morning ,I woke up with God in my heart and he knows our pain ,trials,sicknesses and circumstances .So as you walk the last mile with bubbie ,remember God has all of us in control."Jesus Wept". Peace and love Sav.Ga,Atl.Ga. Wash.DC.Det.Mich.Alyce,Willie Mae,Abraham,Leath Rose The Thomas's .

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To Ernestine and the family. So very sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences and sympathy for you in this most difficult time. May God give you strength to carry on. Betty Tucker and family

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Condolences to the Thomas family and the families connected. James was a great guy and he will be missed. The time that is upon you now, just know God is in charge and will take care of you. Jesus said you can lean on him. Blessings to your entire family. (Sisters Ms. Audrey Davis & Dr. Lurma Swinney)

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Sending you comfort during your loss.Lotty Moody FMU

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May GOD continue to keep and bring you to a place of peace we are here for you.Min Patricia Holt.

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Condolences to the family. God will give you comfort and strength. My favorite cousin, I will certainly miss him.

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Praying that you find peace and strength during this time. Edna Lynn

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Praying for the family, Janice & Jamel Howard

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Wilson High School Class of 1968 share your sorrow with you. We are going to miss our Brother may he rest in peace safe in the hands of "God". LOVE YOU Ernestine and Family... Tiger's Forever

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My dearest uncle I will truly miss you. I am glad that Josh and I spent time with you and Ernestine in April. You made our front row thinner.

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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- Smith Funeral Home of Florence, LLC.