Celebration of Life of William Patrick Thomas January 18, 1939 – February 2, 2021 William Patrick Thomas, “Bill”, a dedicated husband, father, grandfather and devoted friend passed away on Tuesday February 2nd after a lengthy illness. He was 82. Bill was born on January 18th, 1939, in Kilmichael, Mississippi to Jewel B. Thomas and Ruth Germany Thomas. A 1957 graduate of Montgomery County Consolidated High School, Bill was a class favorite who excelled in athletics, particularly football. After graduation Bill accepted a football scholarship to Holmes Community College and then later to Delta State University where he graduated in 1961 with a degree in Physical Education. Upon graduation, Bill enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he served with honor. After leaving the Marine Corps, Bill married his high school sweetheart, Virginia Sue Curtis, to whom he was married for over 57 years. In 1963 he went to work for the Mississippi Ratings Bureau while at the same time attending Jackson School of Law. He graduated from law school and was admitted to the Mississippi Bar Association, where he was a member for over 35 years. Bill accepted the position of House Counsel in 1967 for the Hester and Hester Insurance Agency of Jackson, Mississippi. During his time at Hester and Hester, Bill transitioned to full time sales where he excelled and received numerous awards. He was a member of the MDRT over 25 times and made Leaders’ and Chairman’s Council regularly. He became a full partner in the firm in 1984 and assumed ownership along with Marvin Stockett in 1991 when the firm became the Stockett and Thomas Agency. He worked there until his retirement age 77 in 2017. A life time runner, Bill was a member of the downtown YMCA for over 35 years and a proud member of the “lunchtime levee running crew”. He competed in numerous 5k’s and half-marathons. Another of Bill’s passions was his farm that he and Virginia maintained in Attala County. Snow skiing in Taos New Mexico was also a great love of his. He first went there in 1976 and returned every year, skiing expert runs until his mid seventies. Later in life Bill and Virginia traveled extensively. The time he spent with his wife, children and five grandchildren brought him the most joy. He was affectionately known to them as “Big Daddy.” Bill was a man of integrity with a strong work ethic and a deep sense of loyalty. He will be remembered for his quiet and compassionate nature, his resourcefulness and ability to problem solve. He was a member of the Madison United Methodist Church. Survivors include his daughter, Tamara Thomas Gammon, her husband George and their children Russell Shepherd Gammon and Virginia Kate Gammon of Madison, Mississippi: and a son, Patrick Curtis Thomas, his wife Christina and their three children, Elizabeth Ashton Thomas, Christian Patrick Thomas and William Wyatt Thomas of Madison, Mississippi. Bill was preceded in passing by his wife Virginia and his parents. Pallbearers include Curt Thomas, George A. Gammon III, Russell Shepherd Gammon, Christian Thomas, William Thomas and Alex Sung. Honorary Pallbearers are Jim Alexander, Charles Austin, Charles Wilson Dismuke, Thomas Donahoo, Bobby Howell, Donnie Hovas, Farris Jenkins, Wayne Leonard, Marvell Morgan, Marvin E. Stockett, Terry Thomas, Jimmy Weeks, and Boyce Wilson In lieu of flowers, the family is most appreciative of memorial donations directed to French Camp Academy, 40 Mecklin Avenue, French Camp MS, 39745. Bill was a supporter of French Camp Academy, an interdenominational Christian boarding home and school in French Camp, Mississippi benefiting Mississippi children. A private family burial will be held on Friday, February 5th at 2:00 p.m. at the Natchez Trace Funeral Home in Madison, Mississippi.