Pat Thomas

Mr. Pat Thomas, affectionately known as PaPaw, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2023, at Piedmont McDuffie in Thomson, Georgia. Born in Cincinnati, Ohio on July 11, 1958, he was the cherished son of the late Jessie William Thomas and Ruby Rose Thomas.

A funeral service is planned for Thursday, October 12, 2023, at 2:00 PM at Kiokee Baptist Church in Appling, Georgia with the interment following in the Shucraft  Cemetery.

Pat was a graduate of Powell High School in Powell, Tennessee. Following his graduation, he bravely served in the U.S. Navy for four years, where he worked diligently in the boiler room on the ship. Upon his honorable discharge, Pat moved to Lincolnton, Georgia in 1997 from Knoxville, Tennessee. He had a long and fulfilling career as a welder at Club Car, where he worked for 30 years before his well-deserved retirement.

Pat was a man of many talents and interests. He had a green thumb and found great joy in gardening. He also pursued photography professionally, capturing the beauty of life through his lens. Pat was an avid fisherman, often spending time by the water to unwind and relax. Above all, Pat was a loving husband, father, and PaPaw. He was a devoted member of the Southern Baptist faith and attended Kiokee Baptist Church.

Those who knew Pat would best describe him as loving, handy, and kind. His warmth was infectious, and he had a knack for making everything he touched better. His handy skills were always put to good use, whether it was fixing something around the house or helping a friend in need. His kindness was a beacon to those around him, leaving lasting impressions on everyone he met.

Pat is survived by his loving wife, Sandra Gilchrist Thomas, his children, Winston Gilchrist and his wife, Candace of Lincolnton, GA, Matthew Kitchens of Lincolnton, GA, Robert Thomas and his wife, Ashley of Evans, GA, and Elizabeth Johnson and her husband, Alex of Lincolnton, GA.  Pat was a cherished godfather to C.J. Payton and Chasitty Perry. He leaves behind his sister, Martha Ruff and her husband, Steve, along with 14 beloved grandchildren. Pat was predeceased by his sister, Sheila Sears.

Pat's life was a testament to the power of love, hard work, and faith. He lived his life with a gentle strength and a generous spirit, always ready to lend a hand or share a kind word. His memory will live on in the hearts of those he touched, and his legacy will continue to inspire all who knew him.

While we mourn the loss of a remarkable man, we also celebrate a life well-lived. Pat has left behind a legacy of love, kindness, and dedication that will continue to inspire and guide us. His memory will forever be a beacon of light in the lives of his loved ones. May he rest in peace, knowing that his life made a profound difference to many.

Beggs Funeral Home, 200 May Avenue, Lincolnton, is honored to serve the family of Mr. Pat Thomas.