Robert Joseph “Bob” Thomas, age 82 of Cornelia, passed away peacefully Friday, July 13, 2018, with his loving wife of 45 years Alae Risse Thomas, her sister Virginia Roberts, and special friends by his side.
Born in Jefferson County, Kentucky on March 12, 1936, he was the only child to the late Maurice Henry Thomas and Grace Stockard Thomas. Mr. Thomas worked alongside his father in heating and air conditioning before retiring from Gwinnett County Correctional Institute as a correctional officer. In his younger years, Bob was known for his athletics having participated in boxing, football, track/field, and church softball.
Mr. Thomas served his country proudly in the United States Army. He was an active and devoted member of Hills Crossing Baptist Church where he was a former Sunday school teacher and deacon emeritus. He was also a member of the Gideon’s International North Camp and in his spare time, enjoyed fishing. He loved music, singing in quartet and playing guitar. Bob had a zest for life, always greeting with love and a smile. He loved children, teaching them life lessons to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, to love the Lord and obey His commandments.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Richard and Avie Waldrep; brother-in-law, George Roberts and sister-in-law, Esther Waldrep.
Surviving are loving wife of 45 years, Alae Risse Waldrep Thomas of Cornelia; sister-in-law, Virginia Roberts of Clermont; brother-in-law, Gary Waldrep of Grand Prarie, Texas; nephew, Joey Roberts of Gainesville.
Funeral services are 11 am Tuesday, July 17, 2018, at Hills Crossing Baptist Church with Rev. Walter Singletary officiating. Interment will follow at 2 pm in Alta Vista Cemetery, Gainesville with military honors provided.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 5-8 pm Monday.
An online guest register is available and may be viewed at www.mcgaheegriffinandstewart.com.
Mcgahee-Griffin & Stewart Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706/778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.
