Michael Ray Thomas
Published 9:32 am Wednesday, December 18, 2024
Michael Ray Thomas was born on January 6, 1962, in Bainbridge, Georgia, to Clinton Robert Thomas and Sydell Thomas Wooding. He was the second of two children. After graduating high school, Michael pursued his education, earning an associate degree in Electronics in Birmingham, Alabama, followed by another associate degree in Electrical Engineering from Bainbridge College.
In 1985, Michael was introduced to the Bible and baptized as a Jehovah’s Witness. His faith became a central part of his life, and he joyfully shared with others the hope of everlasting life in perfect health on a paradise earth.
On December 26, 1987, Michael married his beloved wife, Elaine. Together, they raised three children and built a loving family. Michael’s warmth, kindness, and infectious joy made him a cherished husband, father, and friend. Affectionately known as “Yak” by his classmates, Michael was always smiling, cheerful, and eager to make life a celebration. He loved music, food, plants, animals, and, most of all, people. His grandmother, whom he spoke of with deep respect and affection, greatly influenced his love for life and all living things.
Michael’s name, meaning “Who is like God” or “A gift from God,” was a fitting reflection of his character. His boldness in preaching and teaching the Bible and his unwavering faith embodied the love and grace he felt from his Creator. Michael was a precious gift to all who knew him, leaving a legacy of kindness, faith, and joy.
His parents, Clinton Robert Thomas and Sydell Thomas Wooding preceded him in death, as did his grandparents, Jeremiah and Hattie King, and CJ and Ion Thomas. Michael is survived by his loving wife, Elaine; his children, Geordi Christopher (Carmalita) Thomas, Brooke Victoria (Jhonny) Sanchez, and Amber Elizabeth McDonald; six grandchildren: Eden Isabella Thomas, Laia Celine Sanchez, Ryu Hato McDonald, Thian Michael Thomas, Liam Miguel Sanchez, and Iris Rae Sanchez. He is also survived by his brother, Rory Van (Charlotte Simone) Thomas, his aunt, Jereann (Bernard) King Johnson, and cousin Juba (Connie) Allen, along with many other relatives, friends, coworkers, and his spiritual family of brothers and sisters in faith.
Though Michael is no longer with us, he will always be remembered for his love and devotion to his family and his faith. He would say, “This is not goodbye,” but “See you soon.” Until then, he would want us all to “live long and prosper” in the hope of the new world to come, as promised in Psalm 37:29.
A memorial service will be held at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 2798 Dothan Road, Bainbridge, Georgia 39817, on December 21, 2024 at 1:00 PM.