Thomas was born 15 Oct 1935 in Calhoun County.  

He joined Headquarters Company 51st Infantry Division in 1956 and remained with the unit throughout his military career during all of the unit’s reorganizations and moving to the Eastover Armory.  His  membership within the S.C. Army National Guard continued for 42 years and he was employed for 27 years at the Army Aviation Support Facility.  He received many rewards for his years of service.

Thomas was known for his excellent Bar-B-Que that he cooked for the his church’s annual Bar-B-Que for many years. Folks also always loved his special Chicken Bog.   A member of Cameron Community Club—he was known as the Best Rice Cooker for the annual Chicken Bar-B-Que. He was a member of the Sons of the Confederate Veterans.   He was a BIG Clemson Fan.