Wilton Massie Thomas

Wilton Massie Thomas, lovingly known as Bill, passed away peacefully at his

home in Oakland, Oregon, on Monday, January 12, 2026, surrounded by the

people he loved.

Bill was born on September 15, 1944, in Richmond, Virginia. Then his family

moved to Myrtle Point, Oregon where he grew up, and met the love of his life,

Janet Barklow. The two began dating at the age of 16 and were married on June

6, 1964, beginning a lifetime of love, partnership, and devotion to one another.

Bill was a man of strength and steady presence, someone whose love was

shown through actions and words. He lived his life with resilience, and a deep

devotion to his family and his faith. He worked at a couple of local mills before

joining the Barklow Dairy Farm, eventually taking over its operation after the

passing of his father-in-law, Francis Barklow. His strong work ethic and

commitment to providing for his family were evident in all he did.

Bill loved God, his family, fishing, hunting, watching football on television, and

following NASCAR. His faith was a guiding force in his life, and he found comfort

in trusting God's promises and the hope of eternal life. While his passing leaves a

deep ache, his family finds peace in knowing he has been welcomed home,

reunited with loved ones who went before him, and now rests in the presence of

the Lord.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Cicero and Sarah Stidham; his

brothers, Wilmer and Rick Stidham; his in-laws, Francis and Neoma Barklow; his

son-in-law, Charley Harris; and his great-granddaughter, Rosalee Sales.

He is survived by his loving wife, Janet Thomas; his daughter, Melinda Roth and

husband, Keith; his son, Troy Thomas and wife, Ronda; and his daughter,

Annette Davis and husband, Ronnie. He is also survived by nine grandchildren

and seventeen great-grandchildren, all of whom were a great source of pride and

joy in his life. He is also survived by his sister, Phyllis Penn and husband, John; sister Janice Stidham-Brunson and brother, Jerry Stidham and wife Sigrid.

Viewing will be held at Amling Schroeder Mortuary, located at 404 7th St, Myrtle

Point, Oregon, from 10 - 11 a.m. Saturday January 24, 2026.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday January 24, 2026, at Myrtle

Point Baptist Church, located at 1856 Stover Lane, Myrtle Point, Oregon.

A graveside service will follow at Norway Cemetery and will be for family only.

Though life on earth will never be quite the same without him, Bill's spirit lives on

through cherished memories, shared stories, and the faith that assures his family

they will see him again. Time may soften the sorrow, but the love he gave will

remain forever.