Fred W. Thomas

Fred William Thomas, age 89 years, a resident of Vienna, Illinois, passed away Friday morning, July 22, 2016, at 3:00 AM at the Hillview Health Care Center in Vienna. Fred was born February 27, 1927 in Belknap, Illinois. He was the son of Louis Everett Thomas and Lois Marie (Tanner) Thomas. On June 26, 1964, Fred was united in marriage to Wanda June Smelcer in Vienna. She preceded him in death on February 6, 2003. Survivors include: his children – James “Buddy” Thomas of Carbondale, Beatrice (her husband, Ronnie) Rixie of Vienna, Billy (his wife, Rachel) Thomas of Grantsburg, and Teresa Thomas of Vienna; 14 grandchildren – Michael, Matthew, Daniel, Mary, Jennifer, Tommy, Rebecca, Jared, Ericka, Felicia, Nicole, Will, Tori, and Libby; several great and great-great grandchildren; a sister – Lois “Marie” (her husband, David) Mizell of Metropolis, a son-in-law – Norman Nichols of Georgia; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to his parents and wife, Fred was preceded him in death by a daughter – Sheryl Nichols and 2 brothers – John Louis Thomas and Floyd Ernest Thomas. Fred had been employed at the former Main Brothers Box and Lumber Company in Karnak. He also worked as an assembler at Norge Manufacturing in Herrin. Fred was a member of Freedom Outreach Ministries. He had been a former member and trustee of the Vienna Assembly of God Church for over 30 years. Fred was a skilled woodworker. He freely gave handcrafted wood items to many individuals and businesses. These are now precious reminders of his skill and craftsmanship. Fred is also remembered for his strong work ethic and his willingness to help anyone. He never met a stranger. Fred cherished and loved his family. A Funeral Service honoring the life of Fred William Thomas will be conducted Sunday afternoon, July 24, 2016, at 3 PM at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna. Pastor Steve Watkins and Pastor Richard Swiney will officiate. Burial will be in the Vienna Fraternal Cemetery. Visitation will be held Sunday afternoon from 1 PM – 3 PM at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna. Memorials may be made to the Hillview Health Care Center (Van Fund), 512 North 11th Street, Vienna, IL 62995.

Fred W. Thomas

February 27, 1927 - July 22, 2016