William Thomas, Jr.

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:7-8

William Thomas, Jr. was born in Florence, SC, the youngest of four children to the late Ms. Annie Ruth Thomas. Bill began his earthly journey matriculating through the hallways of Holmes Elementary School, Wilson Junior High School and then graduated from Wilson Senior High School in the Class of 1968 where he served as the class president.

Bill loved his family and community, but his greatest love was for the Lord. He was a member of Trinity Baptist Church where he joined at an early age and was baptized under the pastorate of Reverend J. J. Abney. Little did Bill know the course his life would embark upon and, despite his earthly struggles, he never once wavered in his love for God and leaves behind a legacy of faith, kindness and generosity. He served as a member of the Trinity Baptist Men’s Club and helped form the MIND Club (Men Interested in New Dimensions). 

Bill’s employment career began as a high school bus driver and then as a produce manager for Winn Dixie grocery store. He joined the United States Marine Corp and served his country faithfully while stationed at Camp Lejeune, NC. 

Bill married the former Elizabeth Muldrow, who preceded him in death. To this union was born their son, Terrance L. Thomas. 

Bill will always be affectionately remembered as “Bill Jr.” who had the brightest smile and most positive attitude. He loved life, took care of his neighborhood, hosted block parties and was always the life of those parties. He was larger than life and would give you the shirt off his back. His wisdom extended beyond his years and will be cherished by all who were blessed to have received. 

Bill was preceded in death by his grandparents: Reverend John Wesley Thomas and Mrs. Fletcher Williams, his mother: two sisters: Vivian Thomas and Sara Lee Thomas, his brother: Henry Thomas, one nephew: Reverend Franklin Briggs, one grand nephew: Neal Thomas, and his goddaughter and niece: Desha T. Cooper. 

Bill Jr. leaves to cherish his precious memories his son, Terrance Thomas of Dallas TX; three grandchildren, Taliah (Ace) Thomas of Columbia SC, Quentin Earl Thomas and Ella Jean Thomas of Dallas TX; sisters-in-law Vivian Thomas and Sarah Muldrow of Florence SC and Evelyn Muldrow of Columbia SC; nieces, Deborah Cooper, Miriam Scott (husband, Ronald) and Janeen Thomas of Florence SC; nephews, Ruben Coleman and Julian Thomas of Florence SC; and a host of loved grand nieces, grand nephews, a great niece, cousins and friends.   

Please keep the family of William "Bill Jr." Thomas, Jr. in your thoughts and prayers.