Robert Wilson “Bob” Thomas, 77, of Indian Creek was called home Thursday morning, May 25, 2017, at his residence.
He was born March 5, 1940, in Lewis County, a son of the late Robert Wilson and Bertha Stamm Thomas.
Robert was of the Christian faith and had a lifelong love of farming and education. He was a school teacher for the Lewis County Board of Education for 27 years and is perhaps best known for teaching Chemistry and several math courses at Lewis County High School. He also drove a school bus for several years, all while raising tobacco and cattle on his farm. Robert made the decision to give his life to Jesus Christ during his battle with a terminal illness and only wished that he had begun going to church years earlier. After committing himself to Christ, his happiest times were spent singing gospel songs and reading the Bible. He was a pillar of his community and was always eager to lend a helping hand to friends and neighbors in need. He enjoyed reading, farming, repairing things, going to farm sales, spending time with his family and friends, especially his grandchildren. He will be dearly missed by everyone who knew him, but our loss is Heaven’s gain.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, Leo Johnny Thomas.
Robert is survived by his wife of 57 years, Rena Applegate Thomas, to whom he was a deeply devoted husband. They met during their years at Morehead State University, which was only the beginning of a lifelong commitment to each other. They were married on December 26, 1960, and though they experienced a life of ups and downs, they remained an excellent example of unconditional love until the end. He is also survived by one son, Michael Wilson Thomas (Georgia) of Vanceburg; four grandchildren, Laura Beth Thomas, Mackenzie Dawn Hall, Morgan Eli Hall, and Levi Wilson Thomas; one brother, Jimmy Dale Thomas (Marjorie) of Silver Springs, Maryland; and one sister, Jean Hart of Willoughby Hills, Ohio. He also leaves many other family members and friends who will sadly miss him.
Services will be at 11:00 a.m. Monday, May 29, 2017, at Thackers Chapel with Brother Lonnie Eden officiating. Burial will follow in Thomas Cemetery.
Friends may visit from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Sunday, May 28, 2017, at Dickerson Funeral Home, 110 West Second Street in Vanceburg, and on Tuesday, Mr. Thomas will lie in repose one hour before the service time at Thackers Chapel.
Pallbearers will be Michael Thomas, Paul Applegate, Jimmy Thomas, Eddie Stamm, Rick Crawford, Morgan Hall, Jim Esham, and Brad Esham. Gary Applegate will serve as an honorary pallbearer.
Condolences may be sent at www.globefc.com.
