Wallace McNeil “Wally” Thomas, 93 of Louisa, entered heaven on Sunday March 3, 2019. He was born on May 7, 1925 in Charlottesville, one of four children born to the late William M. Thomas and Olive M. Alcock Thomas. Wally was also preceded in death by his loving wife of 59 years, Violet Bolick Thomas, his brother, Dr. Alton Thomas, and his sister Audrey Bowling. He is survived by his beloved companion of 11 years, Lillie Mae Bishop of Keswick, his daughter, Patricia Miller of Gordonsville, his sister, Betty McClanahan of Ohio, grandsons, Craig Miller and wife Paula of New Jersey and Brian Miller of Gordonsville, great-granddaughters, Ashlyn and Addison Miller of New Jersey and many wonderful nieces, nephews and a host of friends.
Wally was a graduate of Lane H.S. Class of “47” and a charter member of Lane H.S. Band. Wally served in the South Pacific during World War II in the United States Navy. Mr. Thomas entered Mercantile Business School on a GI bill to start a career and partnership in Men’s Clothing. He also served as president of Barracks Road Merchants Association, past commander Post #74 Charlottesville American Legion, past secretary of Charlottesville Kiwanis, a member of the Jefferson Land Barbershop Quartet, served as interim manager of Blue Ridge Shores Property Owners Assoc., and president of BOD of Ridge Utilities Lake Division, a dedicated member of The Gideons International Louisa/Orange Camp, Deacon Emeritus, Trustee Chairman, and Choir Chairman of Blue Ridge Shores Baptist Church.
A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday March 8, 2019 at Blue Ridge Shores Baptist Church with Pastor Steven Whetzel officiating. A graveside service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Monticello Memory Gardens in Charlottesville.