Sidney Earl Thomas Sr.

Sidney Earl Thomas, age 87, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2025. Born on June 9, 1938, in Clinton, Mississippi, Sidney (affectionally known as "Bunchie") was the beloved eldest son of the late Solomon Thomas and Lula Lee Bailey Stephens. In 1962, Sidney, together with his cherished wife, Carolyn Tobias Thomas (deceased), and their three children, Jackie, Little Bunchie, and Jerome, made Toledo, Ohio their home.

It was at an early age that the noted Radcliffe Family of Clinton, MS saw the talents and strengths in Sidney which instilled a confidence in him that continued throughout his life. There was not a job that Sidney wouldn't take on. The Brown Family admired Sidney's work ethic and employed him at their family business, Brown Pontiac in Toledo, where he dedicated over four decades of his life showcasing his expertise as a mechanic and valued employee. He was also skilled house painter and worked independently on cars in a rented garage, highlighting his determination to excel in his own way. Beyond his professional achievements, Sidney was deeply involved in his community. Along with being a member of the Blue Gill Fishing Club, Sidney was a proud Master Mason of Amazon Lodge No. 4 in Toledo and honorably served on the Mecca Temple #43 Imperial Motorcycle Patrol, reflecting his commitment to service and fellowship. His annual vacation with his immediate family was Jackson and Clinton, MS to visit with his family. It was precious time spent with his aunts and cousins whom he loved so much. He would always make a pit stop spending time with friends dear to his heart who lived across the states along the way. In his prime, Sidney loved showcasing his motorcycles, attending house parties, and dancing the night away. His favorite pastime on Saturday mornings was listening to rhythm & blues on his favorite radio station.

Sidney was a proud family man, cherished by his many friends and a host of extended family members. Spending time with his family gave him great joy. Many of his children's friends viewed him as a second father. There wasn't a person he couldn't connect with…talking for hours, listening, and sharing his wisdom. To know him is to love him.

Sidney is survived by his children: Derrick Halcomb, Sr. (Penny); Dr. Jacquelyn Thomas-Miller (John – Deceased); Sidney Thomas, Jr.; Johnny Holly; Michael Thomas; and Sheila Thomas. He leaves behind treasured grandchildren: Serenthia (Jonathan), Derrick, Jr. (Sukeena), Sidney, III, Imhotep, Osiris, Ramses, Jordan, Alexander, Eban, Dewaun, Michael Jr., and Mason. Sidney was also a proud great-grandfather to Olivia, Zenobia, and Derrick, III. He is outlived by three of his nine siblings, Dorothy Milner; Claude Stevens; and Theodosia Stevens.

Sidney will be remembered for his humor, loyalty, and resolute spirit.