BISHOP STEPHEN ALAN THOMAS – Age 61, of Dalton, Georgia passed away Friday, February 3, 2023. He was born May 29, 1961 in Muncie, Indiana to his late parents, Rev. Willie Roosevelt Thomas and Ida Marie Hassler Thomas. He served as Bishop for Community Fellowship Church of Ministries for 37 years. He launched the Northwest Georgia College of Theology, was the founder of the LOME Gathering, and cofounder of the Concerned Clergy. He also served on the board for the Dalton Parks and Recreation Department. He was awarded the lifetime achievement award and given the Key to the City of Dalton. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Tabitha Reneé Thomas, siblings Eddie Johnathan Thomas, Sr., W. Marie Thomas, and Timothy Roosevelt Thomas.

He is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Dr. Dana Ann Thomas; children, Stephen H. (Kelsey) Thomas and Matthew (Keona) Thomas; grandchildren, Stephen “Elijah” Thomas, Kaitlynn Thomas, Kyla Thomas, Ida Thomas, and Luke Thomas; sister, Elizabeth Kaye Thomas; brother, Pastor David (Aretha) Thomas; father-in-law, Cartrell Freeman; mother-in-law, Evon Freeman; sisters-in-law, Cindy Thomas, Vickie Thomas, and Melissa “Pam” (Ricky) Partlow; brother-in-law, David Freeman; best friend, Min. Charlie (Rhonda) Walker, Jr.; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, Godchildren, other relatives, and friends.

Homegoing Celebration will be Saturday, February 11, 2023 at 11:00 A. M. at The Dalton Convention Center, 2211 Dug Gap Battle Rd., Dalton, GA 30720 with Minister Matthew Thomas, Minister Charlie Walker, Jr., and Pastor David Thomas, Eulogists. Interment, West Hill Cemetery. The Thomas Family will receive extended family and friends Thursday, February 9, 2023 from 12:00 Noon – 6:00 P. M. at Community Fellowship Church of Ministries, 409 N. Fredrick St., Dalton, GA 30721. There will be a Special Memorial Service on Friday, February 10, 2023 at 6:00 P. M. at Dalton Convention Center. Arrangements by Willis Funeral Home, Dalton, GA.