Robert Joseph Bob Mr. Thomas

COLUMBIA - Robert 'Bob' Joseph Thomas, 86, passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, July 6, 2014, following a long illness. A funeral service will be conducted on Tuesday, July 8, 2014 at 2:00 pm at Killian Baptist Church, with his son, the Reverend Robert 'Joe' Thomas and the Reverend Richard Humphries officiating. Visitation will be from 1:00 to 2:00 pm at the church prior to the service. Interment with military honors will be on Wednesday, July 9, 2014 at 1:00 pm in Rocky Mount Baptist Church Cemetery, 4167 Rocky Mount Church Road, Polkton, NC. Mr. Thomas was born on May 14, 1928, in Burnsville Community of Anson County, NC and was a son of the late James Calvin and Gertha Thomas. He attended Clemson University where he played football. He also attended the University of North Carolina, Charlotte. He proudly served his country as a Seabee in the US Navy during the Korean Conflict. After an honorable discharge, Mr. Thomas returned to North Carolina working in the car business in Charlotte and then for most of his career in franchise car sales in the Columbia area. He also owned an automobile business in Camden for a number of years. He was a member of Killian Baptist Church for 35 years. He enjoyed and taught adult Sunday School Class; served in the Men's Ministry and loved serving as an usher. He was an avid gardener, growing beautiful landscapes at his home. He loved golf, fishing and hunting. He was an awesome husband, father and grandfather. His greatest priority was the love and care of his family and serving his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He strived that God would show him His ways, lead him in God's truth and teach him, for God was the God of his Salvation (Psalm 25:4-5). Mr. Thomas is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Rachel Emaline Howell Thomas of the home; a son, Robert 'Joe' Jr. and wife, Norma of Salisbury, N.C.; daughters, Emily Thomas and Sandra Thomas of Columbia; grandson, Robert Thomas III and wife, Sarah Beth of Wake Forest, N.C.; sister, Shirley Baucom (Ernest) of Salisbury. He was well loved and will be missed by many. Memorials may be made to Killian Baptist Church Brotherhood, 577 Killian Road, Columbia, SC 29203. Dunbar Funeral Home Northeast Chapel, Columbia and Leavitt Funeral Home, Wadesboro, NC is assisting the family.