Gary King Thomas

Gary King Thomas of Cornelia, Georgia passed away on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 following a short illness.

Born in Waynesboro, Virginia, on June 29, 1957, Gary lived there before moving to Florida and Puerto Rico, and then primarily grew up in Truro, Nova Scotia. He moved to Cornelia, Georgia in 1982.

Gary was active in gymnastics, competing and coaching, both in Canada and the United States. He enlisted in the United States Army at the age of 30, serving first in the Georgia Army National Guard before transitioning to active duty. He retired from the military in 2013.

Gary was preceded in death by both his birth parents, Marguerite & William King, and by his adoptive parents, Ray & Lucy Thomas; one brother, Paul King; and one sister, Sharon Dereski; as well as several other family members and friends.

He leaves behind his wife of 35 years, Rebecca (Becki) Thomas; two children, Angel “Ricci” Thomas (Mike), Kristofer Thomas (Amber), & one grandson, Archer King Thomas. Gary also leaves behind one brother, Monte Thomas (Carol), three sisters, Barbara Prewitt (Mark), Carolyn Bone (John), Judy Earhart; as well as several much-loved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and many family members and friends.

Gary chose to be cremated, and a gathering of family and friends will be held at a later date. His remains will be placed in Georgia, Virginia, West Virginia, and Nova Scotia.

An online guest registry is available for the Thomas family at www.mcgaheegriffinandmcentire.com

McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706/778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.