Alvin Ray Thomas, devoted husband, father and grandfather, passed peacefully on May 20th, 2016. Born September 8, 1926, he had a passion for nature and cultivated a love of farming at a young age, a profession that he would continue throughout his life. One of ten siblings, he grew up in a close-knit family and proudly served his country in World War II. Upon returning, he married the love of his life, Clive Marie Gilchrist. They honored their commitment to each other without waiver, during both health & sickness and throughout youth & age. Together they raised four children, to whom they steadfastly dedicated their lives, a tradition that they carried on with their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Clive Gilchrist Thomas. His children: Gary (Alice) Thomas of Buies Creek, N.C., Jones Tilman Thomas of Lillington, N.C., Donna (Ernest) Crews of Ocean Isle Beach, N.C., daughter-in-law Mary-Jane Thomas of Vass, N.C., and nephew Jimmy (Glenda) Thomas of Lillington, N.C. His Grandchildren: Will (Melia) Thomas, Page Willis, Ben (Carmen) Thomas, Amanda (Daniel) Gabriel, Amie (Ian) Bloom, Alan Crews, and Billy Crews; in addition to his 11 great-grandchildren and many more relatives whom he greatly adored.

He is predeceased by his son Keith Wayne Thomas, parents Clarence and Essie Thomas, and brothers Harold, Tommy, and Oker Lee Thomas.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM Sunday, May 22, 2016 at Lillington Presbyterian Church with Rev. Dawn Stoker and Rev. Shirley Bain officiating. Burial will follow in Westview Cemetery. The family will receive friends after the service at the farm.

In keeping with both his faith and empathy towards those in a time of need, the family asks that in lieu of flowers donations be made to either Lillington Presbyterian Church (1101 S. 8th St. Lillington, N.C. 27546) or Transitions Lifecare Hospice Center (250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh N.C, 27607).