Delores M. Thomas

Obituary For Delores M. Thomas

Place of Service: Galilee M.B. Church Cemetery

Date of Service: Saturday, Mar, 2nd. 2024 @ 11a.m.

Visitation: Friday, Mar 1st, 2024 From: 9a.m. - 7p.m.

Internment: Galilee M.B. Church Cemetery

In humble submission to the immutable Will of our Lord, we heavy-heartedly announce the passing of Delores Marie Thomas (Nee Gates) on February 24th, 2024, in Florence, Ms. Born on July 10th, 1948, in tight-knit community of Harmony, Leake County, Ms. Delores's earthly journey spanned seventy-five years of grace, wisdom, and unwavering faith.

A lifelong learner, Delores began her academic journey in the Leakey County School District, later gracing the halls of Murphy High School in Walnut Grove, Ms. and finally, at Alcorn State University in Lorman, Ms. Her career as a teacher for two years and dedicated employee of Flagstar Bank for 38 years reflected her commitment to nurturing young minds and serving her community with unwavering diligence until he well-earned retirement in 2012.

Delores's spiritual path was deeply rooted in her early acceptance of Christ at Galilee Missionary Baptist Church in Harmony, Ms. Her subsequent spiritual service at Lily Missionary Baptist Church in Jackson MI, saw her embrace roles that nurtured both her community and her soul, as she served as a church matron, Sunday School and Vacation Bible School teacher, and a Trustee.

Her hobbies- a love for conversation, writing, reading the Holy Scriptures, and extending a helping hand-were a testament to her gratitude and respect for all of God's children. Her life was a living sermon, exemplifying the humble service to which all believers are called.

A beacon of love and a testament to the strength of family bonds, Delores was a devoted mother, sister, daughter, grandmother, great-grandmother, and a cherished friend to many. Her life was a reflection of her commitment to the virtues of optimism, strength, intelligence, and inner beauty. As a stalwart prayer warrior, Delores walked in light, inspiring those around her through her actions and unwavering devotion to her faith.

Delores was welcomed into the arms of the Lord, joining those who have preceded her in rest: Her loving parents, Jessie Earl and Fannie Kirkland Gates; her noble grandparents, Aulsie (AL) and Lular Stewart Turner Kirkland and George Luther and Tessie Dennis Gates; and former husband, Dr. Joseph Edward Thomas Jr, and many other honored family members.

Her legacy of love and nurturing continues through her beloved family: daughter, Shayla Thomas Patton (Charles V.) of Florence, Ms.; son, Joseph Thomas, III of Jackson, MI; brother, Austin Gates (Cheryl) of Parma, MI; along with her cherished grandchildren, Amiyah Patton, Joseph Thomas, IV, MiKayla Patton, Rhaylinn Thompson Chappell (Eric, Jr.), and Tayvin Thomas, and her precious great-grandson Eric Chappell, III (EJ). She also leaves fond memories with her nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members, along with a tapestry of friendships woven with care an mutual respect.