Obituary of Wilford Thomas

On Sunday, July 17, 2022, at the age of 84, at his residence in Pemberton, New Jersey, God called Wilford Thomas home. As he departed this earth he was surrounded with love from his family. Wilford was born May 4, 1938, in Lowndes County, Georgia to his parents Joseph and Willie Bell Thomas, and had one brother, Samuel Thomas, all who preceded him in death. Up until the age of 18, he resided in Valdosta, Georgia and attended Dasher High School where he graduated. Two weeks after graduation, he joined the Army, rising through the ranks, stationed at various military bases throughout the United States and Germany, where he met his wife, Evelyn of 57 years. He also served in the Vietnam War, garnering many medals and awards. Wilford retired as Master Sergeant, completing 27-years of active-duty service, and rounding out his career with the United States Postal Service after 16 years. A believer in the Word, Wilford was an active member of Saint Mark Baptist Church, in Browns Mills, New Jersey and was at peace knowing the Lord would eventually call him home for eternal rest. A quiet, deep-thinking man of faith, he always had wisdom to share rooted in his strong belief in God. He was a proponent of education wanting his children and grandchildren to always seek knowledge so they can attain a better life for themselves, and one he so believed they deserved. Many words come to mind when thinking about Wilford, but the following personify his spirit—a great provider, wise, supportive, direct, mellow, strong, intuitive, content, champion, proud, caring, and loving. These words represent what he would consider his greatest accomplishment—the joy of being a family man. He leaves to cherish his memories a loving wife, Evelyn Thomas; sister, Artie Mae Johnson; three children, Bernard Gardner (Claudia), Keith Thomas, Lisa Thomas-Wright (Byron); grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many caring friends.