Mr. Gary Harold "T; Unc" Thomas

The Homegoing Celebration for Mr. Gary Thomas will be held Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at First United Holiness Church, 324 Engram Street, Montezuma, Georgia. Interment will follow at New Hope Baptist Church Cemetery.

Gary Harold Thomas, a devoted father, brother, grandfather, uncle, cousin, and friend, peacefully departed this life on Friday, May 15, 2026. Born on March 24, 1960, Gary was the 17 th of 18 children born to the late Willie "Bud" Thomas and Rose Mae Thomas. Known affectionately as "T" to his close friends and "Unc" to many others, Gary was widely recognized as a fighter-a resilient soul who faced life with strength, determination, and a playful confidence. He famously believed he could take on and beat up absolutely anybody, a testament to his bold spirit and the protective, fearless way he lived his life.

Gary affectionately referred to himself as a "Buffalo Soldier," proudly living by his personal motto: "Lead, Follow, or Get Left Behind." That mindset reflected the fearless, determined, and independent way he approached both life and the people he loved.

Gary's formative years were spent between Georgia and Connecticut. He attended Douglass High School in Montezuma, Georgia, as well as Bulkeley High School, where he developed a deep passion for football and became an outstanding high school football player known for his toughness, leadership, and competitive spirit. His love for the game continued at Naugatuck Valley Community College, where he played collegiate football and built lifelong friendships and memories through the sport he loved so dearly. A lifelong learner with a strong work ethic, he later went on to complete his Bachelor's Degree in Business at Shorter College.

Gary proudly served his country in the United States Army with honor and distinction. Rising to the rank of Sergeant (SGT), E-5, he dedicated many years to military service as an Armor Crewman, specializing in the operation and maintenance of armored tanks, including the M1 Abrams, M48, and M60 tanks. Throughout his military career, Gary served under Headquarters Forces Command (FORSCOM), with his final duty assignment at Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), 2nd Battalion, 77th Armor at Fort Carson. His military service reflected the same courage, discipline, leadership, and toughness that defined every aspect of his life. Gary carried immense pride in his service to his country, and the values he learned in the military remained with him throughout his life.

A true people person, Gary's warmth and generosity knew no bounds. His home was a sanctuary, always open to family and friends. He possessed a deep love for nature and found immense joy in planting and working outdoors. He was also a master of the grill and took great pride in cooking his signature down-south soul food for those he loved. An avid builder who loved working with his hands, Gary also cherished the simple joy of connection, often spending hours on the phone catching up with his extensive family.

Gary's greatest joy was his family, and his legacy of love will live on through them. He is survived by his loving children, daughter Kaiyana Thomas and her husband Anthony Spoon, and son Xavier Thomas. He also lovingly embraced Greg and Tralonna as his bonus son and daughter. He was the proud grandfather of Serenity Brock.

He also leaves behind his cherished siblings: Tommie Thomas, Rose Tyler, Bonnie Calloway, Cornelius Thomas, and Henry Thomas, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended relatives, and dear friends who will deeply miss his presence, humor, strength, and unconditional love.

West's Mortuary, Inc. is honored to serve the family of Gary Harold Thomas.