Lawrence Thomas Jr.

January 8, 1949 - April 2, 2017

Lawrence Thomas, Jr. departed this earthly realm for his heavenly home Sunday, April 2, 2017, at the Rice Estates Nursing Home in Columbia. Born January 8, 1949 in Columbia, South Carolina, he was a son of the union between the late Lawrence, Sr. and Bessie Thomas. A graduate of C.A. Johnson High School, Lawrence served his nation proudly in the United States Navy. Upon his honorable discharge, Lawrence furthered his education by attending Palmer College and Midlands Technical College. Lawrence joined First Nazareth Baptist Church where he served faithfully until a decline in health with the majority of his time in service with the Brotherhood Choir; additionally he was a former member of the Corthain Masonic Lodge #11 in Columbia. He was a jovial person with a love of jokes, working in the yard, singing, playing the guitar, and writing poetry. Lawrence retired from the South Carolina Department of Corrections, formerly known as CCI, after 28 years as a lieutenant. Those who knew and loved Lawrence will forever remember his kind spirit, warm heart, and beautiful smile. He leaves to cherish precious memories: his devoted wife of 45 years, Geneva O. Thomas; two children a loving and devoted son Bryan (Mesha) Thomas of Hampton, Virginia, and an amazing daughter Bridget (Rasheen) Lewis of Covington, Georgia; four grandchildren: Maya and Laura Thomas of Hampton, Virginia; and Brittany and Breia Lewis of Covington, Georgia; six siblings: Joanne (Marshall) Pitts, Rubert Thomas, Alonzo (Margaret) Thomas, Frances (Barney) Allen, Doris (Timothy) Hopkins, and Marilyn (Junior) Wardley all of Columbia; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends who will dearly miss his presence in their lives.