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Charles Thomas and Tammie McKinnie Williams are known for their positive attitude and loving personalities throughout the community and especially at their workplace Taurus.

Early in August of this year, the couple was hospitalized due to COVID-19 and spent nearly a month in the hospital fighting for their lives. During their hospitalization, the couple was separated, taking a toll on their emotional well-being and making the fight to stay well even more difficult.

While Thomas persevered, he lost his soulmate and the love of his life on September 11.

Thomas, along with all of those who knew Williams endured the heartache of losing such a beautiful and kind soul. Although Thomas’ heart was hurting, he went back to work and tried to continue with normal life.

However, his co-workers knew he was hurting in more ways than one.

“He and his wife were everything to one another,” said co-worker Elizabeth Penela. “They would wear matching clothes to work every day.”

Not only that, but Williams was driving Thomas to and from eye appointments prior to their COVID-19 diagnosis.

Thomas had been diagnosed with an eye disease that was causing the retina to detach from his eyes. The diagnosis required surgery, and without it, doctors informed Thomas he would go blind.

Due to the death of his wife, Thomas is now unable to drive to his appointments and has had to postpone his eye surgery.

Throughout this difficulty, he only requested love and prayers from his co-workers.

Penela said Thomas has displayed strength, resilience and compassion each step of the way, but he shouldn’t have to do this alone.

Penela, along with other Taurus co-workers have decided to set up a GoFundMe to help offset the cost of Thomas’ eye surgery and gas to get him to and from appointments.

“We are asking for help to raise money so that Charles can have his eye surgery before it is too late,” Penela said.

Penela understands everyone may not be able to give at this time, but asks that prayers be offered in place of monetary donations.

“Charles is the type of person who would put everything above his eyes, but he shouldn’t have to,” Penela said. “The Doctor says he needs this surgery sooner, rather than later.”

To donate, visit https://gofund.me/65e708ec