John Thomas

Burlington John William Thomas, 83, of May Drive passed away on Tuesday, July 14, 2009 at the Hospice Home after several months of failing health. John was a devoted husband and wonderful father. He was born in Anson County to the late John Ray Thomas and Leone Watson Thomas and would have celebrated 59 years of marriage on Wednesday, July 15th to his loving wife Delma Maidon Thomas who survives. John Thomas, also known as "Red" and J.W., worked at Western Electric for 36 years. He was a charter member of Holly Hill Baptist Church and served as Deacon for many terms. In March of 2009, he was awarded Deacon Emeritus at Holly Hill. John faithfully served his country during WWII in the U.S. Navy. He is survived by his wife of the home; sons and daughters-in-law, Edmund William "Bill" Thomas of Burlington, Edward Ray Thomas of Winston-Salem, Terry Maurice and Sandy Thomas of Graham and Joe Allen and Maureen Thomas of Charlotte; daughter and son-in-law, Tammy Susan and Jeff Karnes of Graham; daughter-in-law, Linda Zufall Thomas of Burlington; grandchildren, Tara Thomas, Laura Byrne, Kimberly Ward, Jeffrey Karnes II, Jonathan Karnes and Brandon Thomas, Jessie Courson and Jimmy Kittridge; four great grandchildren and brothers, Joe Thomas of Asheboro and Jack Thomas of Stanfield. He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Azile Sites and a brother, Mack Thomas. The funeral service to celebrate his life will be held 11:00 AM Friday at Holly Hill Baptist by Rev. Paul West and Rev. Everette Rumley with interment to follow at Alamance Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 9:30 to 10:45 AM Friday prior to the service at the church and other times at the residence. Many thanks to Holly Hill Baptist Church for their support and kindness expressed during this time. In addition, the family would like to thank his caretakers Diana Enoch, Rhonda Summers and all Hospice Workers that assisted the family. Thanks to our neighbors and friends that have been so supportive. Lastly, our appreciation to Dr. Finnegan, Michelle and all the volunteers and employees at Alamance Cancer Center. Memorials may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of Alamance-Caswell, 914 Chapel Hill Rd., Burlington, NC 27215 or to The Alamance Cancer Center, 1236 Huffman Mill Rd., Burlington, NC 27215. Death is swallowed up in Victory. Praise God for John Thomas. You may sign the online register book at www.lowefuneralhome.com.